2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 149
Celebrating the life of Vernon Rea Jones.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 23, 2026
Agreed to by the Senate, February 26, 2026
WHEREAS, Vernon Rea Jones, a tireless public servant who supported efficient and effective local government, promoted economic development, and fostered a strong sense of community in Orange County, died on January 17, 2025; and
WHEREAS, a native of Orange County, Vernon Jones graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and served the nation as a member of the United States Army; he ultimately rose to the rank of brigadier general in the Virginia National Guard and continued to support active duty service members and veterans through various roles in the Virginia Department of Military Affairs; and
WHEREAS, Vernon Jones was deeply dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Orange County as a trusted local leader who was respected for his patience, kindness, personal integrity, and visionary leadership; and
WHEREAS, over the course of his long and distinguished career in local government, Vernon Jones served as a member and chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, member and chair of the Orange County Planning Commission, member of the Rapidan Service Authority, and member of the Orange County Economic Development Authority; and
WHEREAS, Vernon Jones fostered economic development and job creation by supporting the establishment of Lee Industrial Park, hiring Orange County's first economic development director, and attracting major employers to the area; and