WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued this statement following news of the passing of former Virginia Del. Clifton A. “Chip” Woodrum:

“Chip Woodrum loved politics and public service, and demonstrated how to gracefully balance those two things during nearly 25 years of service in the Virginia General Assembly. Chip could be formidable in debate, and he was always quick with a quip. But above all, he was a friend to everyone he met. I mourn his passing today. It is a loss not just for the Roanoke Valley, but for the Commonwealth of Virginia. My thoughts are with Emily and the family.”