2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 234
Celebrating the life of Emmett M. Burke, Jr.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 4, 2026
WHEREAS, Emmett M. Burke, Jr., a respected entrepreneur and devoted community leader in Richmond, died on February 5, 2026; and
WHEREAS, Emmett Burke, affectionately known to family and friends as “Spike,” grew up in Richmond and graduated from Armstrong High School, where he excelled in athletics; and
WHEREAS, Emmett Burke continued his education at what is now Virginia State University, until he was drafted into the United States Army; he served his country with honor and rose to the rank of sergeant; and
WHEREAS, Emmett Burke returned to the Commonwealth after his military service and pursued a career in retail, working as an operations manager for the Thalhimers department store chain and for Carter Hawley Hale Stores, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, Emmett Burke ultimately established Burke's Painting and served the community as a business owner until his passing; and
WHEREAS, Emmett Burke was an active volunteer who worked diligently to enhance the quality of life in Richmond and give back to those in need; and