Gov. Bob McDonnell

Gov. Bob McDonnell has issued the following statement:

“In public service, there are a select few who make a mark on the lives of those they represent and the Commonwealth for both their personality and compassion and for their policy achievements. Chip Woodrum was one of those rare individuals. His contributions to the General Assembly for 24 years have had lasting effects on the citizens of the Commonwealth. However, as someone who served alongside Chip for several years in the House of Delegates, to me his most lasting legacy might well be the humor, dedication, fairness, intelligence and compassion he showed in the legislature year after year.

“Chip had a lighting quick wit that would diffuse tensions during heated debates, putting his fellow legislators on both sides of the aisle at ease. Meanwhile, his command of literature and keen intelligence would elucidate arguments with historical references and literary insights.

“He served his constituents in the Roanoke area well for more than two decades. He played a key role on the Freedom of Information Advisory Council, providing more transparency and accountability for our government, and perhaps most memorably Chip labored to establish the Virginia Birth-Related Neurological Injury Compensation Program to assist those families devastated by the financial and emotional impacts of giving birth to a severely disabled child.

“I extend my personal condolences to his family during this difficult time. On behalf of a grateful Commonwealth, I offer our thanks for his public service and dedication to his fellow citizens.”