2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 235
Celebrating the life of Joseph C. Ritchie.
Agreed to by the Senate, March 10, 2026
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 12, 2026
WHEREAS, Joseph C. Ritchie, a dedicated public servant and respected local leader who left a legacy of excellence to the City of Newport News through his commitment to economic growth, died on August 17, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Joseph “Joe” Ritchie grew up in Newport News and graduated from Newport News High School; he continued his education in various apprenticeships and extension school programs, then served the nation as an active-duty member of the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War; and
WHEREAS, Joe Ritchie worked for Newport News Shipbuilding in piping design and for Dow Chemical Company in project engineering before establishing the Ritchie-Curbow Construction Company; and
WHEREAS, Joe Ritchie guided a wide range of construction and development projects in Newport News, and he provided his leadership and expertise to many other organizations, including the executive committee of the Virginia Peninsula Economic Development Board, the Virginia Company Bank, Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport, and the Virginia Aviation Board; and
WHEREAS, desirous to be of further service, Joe Ritchie ran for and was elected to the Newport News City Council and served four terms beginning in 1970; he was a trusted voice in municipal government and was elected by his fellow councilmembers to serve as mayor from 1976 to 1986; and