HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 57 Offered January 9, 2008 Prefiled January 2, 2008 Celebrating the life of George Robert Preas. ---------- Patron-- Fralin ----------

WHEREAS, George Robert Preas of Roanoke, a respected businessman, community supporter, and outstanding professional football player and role model, died on died February 24, 2007; and

WHEREAS, the son of the late Fred Garland and Lucille Preas of Roanoke, George Preas graduated from Jefferson High School and received his bachelor's degree from Virginia Tech as a member of the Class of 1955; and

WHEREAS, when George Preas joined the Hokies in 1951, Virginia Tech had suffered nine straight losses the previous year, and in four years, he was instrumental in turning the winless football team into an undefeated one; and

WHEREAS, a gifted athlete, George Preas began his love of the game of football playing on sandlot teams in Roanoke's Fallon Park; and he established a notable career excelling at the game throughout high school, college, and as a professional player with the Baltimore Colts for 11 seasons; and

WHEREAS, George Preas was also a successful businessman and builder, but he always had time to serve the City of Roanoke as a member of the board of directors for many private entities and public institutions; and

WHEREAS, a kind and generous benefactor, George Preas not only will be fondly remembered for his exciting career with the National Football League, but also for giving of his time and numerous talents to help his fellow citizens and his community; and

WHEREAS, George Preas will be greatly missed by his devoted wife B. J. Preas of Roanoke, his two wonderful children Kelly Leigh Preas and George Robert Preas, Jr., and numerous other loving family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly mourn the passing of an admired citizen and outstanding Virginian, George Robert Preas; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of George Robert Preas as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for his memory.