V
irginia
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apitol
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onnections
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pring
2013
27
Tribute to Chip Woodrum
By Senator John S. Edwards
Former Delegate Clifton A. Woodrum, III, was a class act, the
epitome of the Virginia citizen-legislator. He insisted on being
called simply “Chip”; he was a regular guy and a friend to everyone
he met.
With his sharp mind and
encyclopedic knowledge, he could
quote Chaucer, Shakespeare, the
Bible and tell funny stories at the
drop of a hat. With his quick wit,
he had a knack for coming up with
colorful quips, quotes and jokes for
any occasion or to support a floor
debate. His witty remarks were not
only fitting, funny and incisive, but
spot on in making his point. He had
the innate ability to make a point with
humor like no other person. His one-
liners made him beloved by everyone
who knew him and particularly quotable by the press.
Chip was a loyal friend and a mentor to many. He left his mark
in much legislation, including authoring the Virginia Birth-Related
Neurological Injury Compensation program and establishing the
Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center. He chaired the Virginia
Freedom of Information Advisory Council, where he played a
leading role in pushing for open government.
He loved the General Assembly and taught us that the legislative
process was more important than winning any particular battle.
When he served as chair of the Electric Deregulation Commission,
he made clear his opposition to deregulation, but he did not use his
position to skew the outcome, and he commanded respect from all
sides by fairly presiding over the deregulation process.
During his term, Chip—along with his Roanoke colleagues
Delegates Vic Thomas and Dick Cranwell—were widely known as
the most effective local delegation in Virginia.
Chip was heir to a prominent Roanoke family which shaped
the history of Virginia. His great grandfather was Roanoke City’s
first elected Commonwealth’s Attorney and his grandfather was a
judge and later served 23 years in the U.S. Congress, including as
Chair of its Appropriations Committee. Chip grew up in politics,
and he was a leader in the Democratic Party well before he ran for
elected office.
Chip leaves behind his wife Emily, a lovely lady who was
always by his side, three children and one granddaughter. His
legacy will be long remembered for the legislation he accomplished
and for the caring person he was.
Parking available adjacent to building
Phone 804-644-1702
FAX: 804-644-1703
E-Mail:
Web Site:
hen it comes to events no one
throws a party like David Napier.
Known throughout Central Virginia for his
wonderful food and hospitality, David is
delighted to have opened his catering facility in
the heart of Shockoe Bottom. No event is too
small or large. Delicious Box Lunches delivered.
O
ne of Richmond’s most elegant dining
rooms is now exclusively available for your
private parties and special events. Our award
winning chefs produce an array of dishes from
steaks and seafood to vegetarian and
international masterpieces that will satisfy the
most discriminating palate. The Old City Bar
is the perfect place to celebrate.
In Memoriam
Woodrum
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