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Virginia C apitol C onnections, Fall 2016
20
Lewis “Bud”
Saunders
Died July 23, 2016
By David Bailey
Bud Saunders worked in the mail room
of the Virginia House of Delegates for the
past 15 years. When the General Assembly
convenes in January we will be missing one
of the friendliest persons on Capitol Square.
Some of us who knew him can still see his big smile on top of his
lanky frame. Did anyone ever see a frown? Last April we worked
together in the General Assembly Building loading dock, and those
boxes of 2016 Redbooks were very heavy. Bud only never
knew his health issues. He never complained.
My apologies are extended to everyone who would have said
something about Bud. If I had asked everyone in the GAB, we would
have devoted an entire issue to him. And when I think of his kindness,
it would have been fitting.
“He was a hard worker, great to be around and always
willing to help. Bud was liked by members, staff, lobbyists and
everyone who came to the mail room. It did not matter who you
were, he treated everyone alike. When it would get hectic during
the session, he would crack a joke, setting us at ease to do
a better job.”
Dennis Maxey, House Mail Room
“The House Post Office always reminds me of a general
store in a small town. A one stop shop for just about anything
and everything… part office, part town square. Something
always going on or about to go on—and Bud was usually
somewhere in the center of the action, processing mail, selling
stamps, cracking a joke, or telling a story about something
that happened a long time ago. He loved his wife, he loved his
family, and he loved working for the House of Delegates. He
was a calming presence in the fast-paced world of the General
Assembly; but more importantly, he was a true gentleman
and a good friend.”
Jay T. Braxton, Assistant Clerk | Virginia House of Delegates
“I’ll always remember Bud as one who loved a good laugh.
When things weren’t busy in the GAB post office, Bud would
come out and chat with the Capitol Police guys. It usually didn’t
take long for someone (often Bud) to make a crack that started
everyone laughing. The 2017 General Assembly session won’t be
the same without Bud and his smile.”
Jane Sparks, Capitol Police
“Like so many around Capitol Square, he loved being
around the energy of the General Assembly. Bud contributed
in ways large and small to the good workings of the House of
Delegates for over 15 years. Bud was graced by God with a
warm smile and a wonderful way with people, which is why he
is so sorely missed by all who had the good fortune
and real pleasure of knowing him.”
G. Paul Nardo, Clerk of the House of Delegates
SAUNDERS
576 North Birdneck Road #180
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Phone: 757-513-3967
Fax: 757-962-4551
Email:
PoliticAl coNsultANts
K en J essup
& A ssociAtes
Happy
Retirement to
Ken Jessup!
Enjoy
Margaritaville,
Ken!
You’re still a
lifetime member of the
Virginia Capitol Caucus.
V