To the family of my friend Don Devine,
You have my deepest sympathy on your loss. I have known Don for over half century and in addition to our friendship we were fellow public officials for many years. I remember asking Don for his support when I first ran for the Virginia State Senate in 1971 and he said, "Charlie you have it but what can I do"? I replied "Don, you know so many 'old' Loudoun folks that you can just mention me favorably in your circles." Don replied, "well Charlie, I'll be chairman of the cocktail circuit for you". (ha) I also vividly remember his race for Commonwealth Attorney in 1975 against Jean Clements which ended in a tie vote and the name of the loser was pulled out of a hat in the Hamilton Precinct. Don won by one vote and this became the closest political contest in Loudoun history. Thereafter, we all pointed to this race when we were admonishing folks in our future campaigns that every vote counts.
Don and his late wife were leaders in our community and loved by all with whom they came in contact. Don was an outstanding Commonwealth's Attorney and later served with distinction in the Federal Judiciary.
In time Don's family and friends may become accustomed to not having him among us but we shall never forget his good and cheerful way of life. Charlie Waddell (Virginia Senator Retired)