HJ670: Celebrating the life of Charles Francis, Jr.

WHEREAS, Charles Francis, Jr., an admired and respected citizen and longtime youth baseball coach in the City of Norfolk, died on July 9, 2008; and

WHEREAS, Charles "Rusty" Francis was born and raised in Norfolk, attended Norview High School, and played first base for the Norview Pilots; and

WHEREAS, possessing a strong desire to help young people, Rusty Francis coached in the Naval Air Station Little League for over 20 years and taught youngsters not only how to play baseball but how to be good sports; and

WHEREAS, Rusty Francis coached baseball for American Legion Post 327, was the assistant baseball coach at Granby High School, and served as basketball coach for many years at Holy Trinity School; and

WHEREAS, beloved by his players and their parents, Rusty Francis truly felt that he could make a difference in the lives of young people by getting them involved in and excited about sports; and

WHEREAS, throughout his life of significant achievements, Rusty Francis cared for his family and served his fellow citizens of Norfolk with dedication and commitment; and

WHEREAS, Rusty Francis will be fondly remembered as a great coach, mentor, advisor, counselor, and friend and will be greatly missed by his mother, Carol Marie Stokley, his sister and brother; many other family members and friends; and countless former players, colleagues, and supporters in Norfolk; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the passing of an exceptional Virginian, Charles Francis, Jr.; 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 Charles Francis, Jr., as an expression of the respect in which his memory is held by the members of the General Assembly.