[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 187 (Friday, November 7, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1045-E1046]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE LIFE AND PUBLIC SERVICE OF DAMASCUS TOWN COUNCILMAN JACK
McCRADY, Jr.
_____
HON. H. MORGAN GRIFFITH
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Friday, November 7, 2025
Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and
longtime service of a dedicated public official, Jack McCrady, Jr., who
passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
Councilman McCrady called Damascus, Virginia, home for much of his
life. His love for his community and its progress inspired him to seek
elected office.
Over the years, Mr. McCrady was a worthy representative of the
Damascus community. His experience in local government continually won
him praise and recognition from his fellow peers and the voters of
Damascus.
As a result of building trust and experience with the local
community, Mr. McCrady served as Mayor of Damascus for 20 years. In
addition, he served on the Washington County Board of Supervisors. Most
recently, Damascus elected Mr. McCrady to the Damascus Town Council.
Moreover, Mr. McCrady served on various boards during his life. One
such body was the very first Appalachian Trail Days committee, which is
responsible for organizing the very popular festival that attracts
thousands of people to Damascus every year. When I visit the annual
festival, I see the true fun and spirit of the festival and how much it
means to the local community.
Mr. McCrady's influence on his community was noticed by many. In a
public announcement, Damascus described Councilman McCrady's loss as a
presence that will be missed. It surely will be.
Councilman McCrady is survived by his loving wife of 52 years,
Connie; son, Kris and wife Danielle; daughter, Valerie; sister, Patty
and husband Harvey Clark; brother, Charlie McCrady; and sister-in-law,
Shelby Blevins. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Richard
McCrady, Sr; his mother, Dorothy Virginia Berry; and stepfather, C.C.
Cowan.
Through his various roles in public office, Mr. McCrady provided
strong and experienced leadership that benefitted his Southwest
Virginia community. I am proud to recognize and honor a local public
servant whose impact
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helped his peers, neighbors and the Damascus community.
____________________