2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 35
Celebrating the life of Palmer Leslie Griffith, Jr.
Agreed to by the Senate, January 15, 2026
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, January 19, 2026
WHEREAS, Palmer Leslie Griffith, Jr., a former public servant and iconic restauranteur in Christiansburg, died on September 13, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Palmer “Dude” Griffith worked in a local funeral home and ambulance service and served the community as a member of the Christiansburg Rescue Squad for two decades; and
WHEREAS, desirous to be of further service, Dude Griffith ran for and was elected to the Christiansburg Town Council and worked to enhance the quality of life of his fellow residents for many years; and
WHEREAS, Dude Griffith was best known as the founder and owner of Dude's Drive-In, a local landmark that since 1978 has served delicious American fare, such as freshly pressed hamburgers and homemade chili; and
WHEREAS, Dude's Drive-In became a beloved community meeting place through Dude Griffith's vision, passion, and personal warmth; and