Hello,

The flag for the Commonwealth of Virginia shall be returned to full-staff at sunset today, January 8, 2021.

Sincerely,

Constituent Services and Community Engagement

Office of Governor Ralph S. Northam

“With the passing of Senator Ben Chafin, Southwest Virginia has lost a strong advocate—and we have all lost a good man.

“I knew Ben as a lawmaker, an attorney, a banker, and a farmer raising beef cattle in Moccasin Valley, working the land just as generations of his family had done before him. He loved the outdoors, and he loved serving people even more. He pushed hard to bring jobs and investment to his district, and I will always be grateful for his courageous vote to expand health care for people who need it.

“Pam and I are praying for Lora and their children, and I have ordered the Virginia state flag to be lowered immediately over the state Capitol in his honor and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of his interment.

“This is sad news to begin a new year with the loss of a kind and gracious man. May we all recommit to taking extra steps to care for one another.”

Governor’s Flag Order for the State Capitol in Richmond

This is to order that the flag of the Commonwealth of Virginia is to be flown at half-staff over the state Capitol in respect and memory of Virginia State Senator A. Benton "Ben" Chafin, Jr.

I hereby order that the flag shall be lowered immediately and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of interment.

Ordered on this, 1st day of January, 2021.

Governor’s Flag Order for the County of Russell

Be it further encouraged that the flag of the Commonwealth of Virginia may be flown at half-staff on all local, state, and federal buildings and grounds in the County of Russell and in any other locality as deemed appropriate, in respect and memory of Virginia State Senator A. Benton "Ben" Chafin, Jr.

I hereby authorize that the flag shall be lowered immediately and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of interment.

Authorized on this, the 1st day of January, 2021.

Sincerely,

Ralph S. Northam