A conservative Republican legislator has died since the midterm elections last month, necessitating a special election to fill his seat. On Tuesday, Virginia Delegate Ronnie Campbell, who had a lengthy history of serving his state in public office, died at the age of 68. According to reports, he died after a battle with cancer.
In addition to being a state senator, Campbell served as a state trooper, Rockbridge County supervisor, and board member, according to reports.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Delegate Ronnie Campbell, after a hard-fought battle with cancer,” said a statement posted to his social media accounts, per WSLS. Delegate Campbell was a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. From his time in the Virginia State Police to his time in the House of Delegates, Ronnie served with honor and relentlessly fought for the best interests of others. While he is no longer with us, he will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone touched by him. The family asks for privacy at this time. Arrangements will be made over the next few days.”
2018 saw his election to the Virginia State Legislature. The Washington Post said that Campbell devoted the majority of his legislative efforts to police enforcement and gun rights protection. Several political politicians expressed their condolences and remembrances on social media.
Conservative Lawmaker Dies at 68, Special Election to Be Held via @WestJournalism https://t.co/S0duSE6aMF Virginia Delegate Ronnie Campbell, a conservative with an extensive record of public service, died from cancer on Tuesday at 68.
— DingMeDangMe (@DingMeDangMe) December 16, 2022
“Suzanne and I are saddened to learn of Delegate Campbell’s passing. Ronnie served the Commonwealth he loved in so many ways: as a State Trooper for over two decades, on the Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors & School Board, and in the House of Delegates,” tweeted Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin.
He cared deeply about his community, the Commonwealth, law enforcement, and above all his wife, Ellen, and their family.
Suzanne and I are praying for the entire Campbell family during this difficult time.
— Governor Glenn Youngkin (@GovernorVA) December 13, 2022
“He cared deeply about his community, the Commonwealth, law enforcement, and above all his wife, Ellen, and their family. Suzanne and I are praying for the entire Campbell family during this difficult time,” Youngkin added.
In a Facebook post, Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears (R) noted:
Our friend, Del, Ronnie Campbell is now in the presence of God! To his family I say, now comes the time when we search the word of God for comfort and assurance.
Paul tells us this: “…Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! CONTINUE READING…