[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 51 (Wednesday, March 28, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING RICHARD LEE LAWRENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. H. MORGAN GRIFFITH

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 28, 2012

  Mr. GRIFFITH of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I submit these remarks in 
honor of Richard Lee Lawrence, a devoted servant to the Roanoke Valley 
and the legal community of western Virginia, who passed away 
unexpectedly on March 19, 2012.
  Born and raised in Roanoke, Richard was an active member of Scout 
Troop 21, where he attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He was always 
proud of this achievement. He regularly spoke about how important his 
scouting skills were to his overall education.
  A graduate of Jefferson High School, Roanoke College, and Washington 
and Lee School of Law, Richard also served in the United States Marine 
Corps. He was a passionate student of American history, particularly 
the American Civil War, and also greatly enjoyed immersing himself in 
the various cultures of the world.
  Above all else, Richard was dedicated to his work. He took great 
pride in the fact that he worked each day since his first newspaper job 
as a young boy. Despite being a pillar of the legal bar in the Roanoke 
Valley, Richard was never too busy to mentor young lawyers, including 
myself and my wife. As a boy, Richard was unfortunately the target of 
many bullies. Thankfully, he turned that resentment into a desire to 
fight for the ``little guy.'' Many contend he will be best remembered 
for his dedication to the people who did not have an advocate or a 
voice.
  While I knew Richard as a lawyer and friend, I was unaware of his 
dedication to attending church on Sundays. The priest at Richard's 
funeral made note that over the last five years he could count the 
number of times Richard had missed church on one hand. Always open and 
candid about his shortcomings, Richard's faithful devotion is humbling.
  My thoughts and prayers go out to Richard's family and friends. I am 
honored to pay tribute to his many contributions to the community. His 
legacy and influence will be long remembered across the Roanoke Valley 
and throughout Southwest Virginia.

                          ____________________