We often describe someone by positions held to illustrate his success in life. For The Honorable William F. Parkerson, Jr., these would be colonel, lawyer, commonwealth's attorney, delegate, senator, Mr. Chairman and president pro tempore of the Senate of Virginia. Collectively, they describe Senator Parkerson's decades of public service to the commonwealth and the County of Henrico.

Sometimes, we describe someone by his major public accomplishments. For Bill Parkerson, these would be too many to list here. Whether it was establishing the Science Museum of Virginia, ending annexation by cities, spearheading tort reform and appropriate criminal laws or assuring sound fiscal policies for the commonwealth, Bill Parkerson left a wonderful legislative legacy.

But, Bill Parkerson, who died on January 23, 2003, is not captured in positions held nor major public accomplishments. His legacy is his commitment to a better Virginia, his family and his friends. He made each better and his departure does not diminish his influence on us.

If any single word could describe him, it would be "magnificent." He was a magnificent human being: honest, friendly, hard-working, loving and caring. He was the epitome of intellectual and personal integrity.

When I was a college student interested in government, my father had me meet with Senator Parkerson. Many years later, as Bill and I campaigned and served in the Virginia General Assembly together, I realized that my father wanted me to have the best example of a public servant. . . and that was Bill Parkerson, who became my political and public service mentor. He showed me that you could be both kind and successful in politics and public service.

We thank God each day that we had our magnificent friend with us for so many years. Because of Bill Parkerson, we are better people and this is a much better commonwealth.

Ralph L. "Bill" Axselle, Jr.
Williams Mullen, P.C.
Richmond, Virginia