[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 33 (Friday, February 18, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E164-E165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING WALLACE JAY NELSON, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. H. MORGAN GRIFFITH

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 18, 2022

  Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life of my 
longtime dear friend Wallace Jay ``Wally'' Nelson, Jr. of Blacksburg, 
Virginia, who passed away on January 28, 2022.
  Wally was a native Virginian and a graduate of Emory & Henry College, 
where he and I were roommates. While there he studied economics and 
went on to receive his master's degree in business from the University 
of Virginia.
  Wally started his professional career at Burlington Industries. He 
worked hard and gave his all, earning the spot as the youngest-ever 
plant supervisor. His time there helped pave the way for the rest of 
his career in the commercial insurance industry, where he worked for 
more than three decades. He most recently served as the Vice President 
of SIA Group.
  His life was evidence of his commitment to the improvement of the 
communities in southwest Virginia. He cared deeply for all people and 
was greatly involved in public service. Over the years, he was an 
active Republican that aided in fundraising efforts for numerous 
political candidates. He also served with the Blacksburg Partnership, 
Junior Achievement,

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and the Roanoke Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, where he served as 
president of the group's recruitment division. He also served as a co-
chair for the New River Valley Rail 2020 to lead the effort to expand 
the passenger rail service.
  Wally lived to serve and care for others. He prospered in any 
situation that allowed him to unite and care for others--he never met a 
stranger. But most of all, he adored his family. His humble giving 
heart, hard-working nature, and steadfast faith are just some of the 
most notable characteristics that defined the kind of man Wally was.
  Wally was proceeded in death by his loving parents, Wallace and Helen 
Nelson. He is survived by his cherished wife Heather; children Crandall 
Murphy and husband Shannon, Wallace Jay Nelson III and wife Tory, 
Krystine Hammerle and husband Ryan, Katherine Nelson and Ben Stovall; 
grandchildren Jackson and Paige Nelson, as well as many other beloved 
extended family and friends.
  A man whose legacy and love for family, neighbors, and community will 
long be remembered. Wally was a dear friend that will be greatly 
missed. I am honored to pay tribute to Wally's life. My thoughts and 
prayers go out to his family and loved ones.

                          ____________________