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2015 SESSION
15105151DWHEREAS, William Francis Swain of Newport News, owner of The Lunch Bell restaurant for more than 30 years, a man of faith, veteran of the United States military, and a devoted husband and father, died on February 10, 2015; and
WHEREAS, William “Bill” Swain, who graduated from Warwick High School in 1951, was a member of the football team; he was especially proud of being a “big brother” to teammate Henry Jordan, who went on to play for the Green Bay Packers and later was elected to the NFL Hall of Fame; and
WHEREAS, a lifelong resident of the Peninsula area, Bill Swain was a proud military veteran and served in the United States Air Force; he made valued contributions to the community as a longtime member of the Warwick Lions Club; and
WHEREAS, in 1981, Bill Swain and his wife, Betty, opened The Lunch Bell to serve the many people who worked in the Oyster Point Business Park in Newport News; the popular eatery featured a lunch counter and had 52 seats; and
WHEREAS, many customers appreciated Bill Swain’s friendliness and hospitality, and his wide smile welcomed all who ate a meal at The Lunch Bell; in the ensuing years, the restaurant grew bigger and changed locations twice, and today is located in Newport News’ City Center section; and
WHEREAS, a man of great faith, Bill Swain enjoyed worship and fellowship as a member of Northside Christian Church, where he was a former elder and served as deacon; and
WHEREAS, Bill Swain will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by Betty, his wife of 57 years; and by his children, Billy, Blair, and Shelah, and their families; and by many other family members, friends, and customers of The Lunch Bell; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of Virginia hereby note with great sadness the loss of William Francis Swain of Newport News, owner of The Lunch Bell restaurant, a man of faith, a veteran of the United States military, and a devoted husband and father; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of William Francis Swain as an expression of the Senate of Virginia’s respect for his memory.