‒ After more than three decades of dedicated service to his

‒ After more than three decades of dedicated service to his country and community, Deputy County Administrator Virgil “JR” Powell Jr. will retire from Henry County effective September 30, 2026. JR's career in public service began with the United States Marine Corps, where he served from 1989 until 1995. During his military career, he served during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, supervised a 25 member Marine Communications Center, and received three Navy Achievement Medals for his accomplishments. Following his military service, JR joined the Martinsville Henry County 911 Center in 1995. He served as Operations Supervisor from 1999 until 2012, serving as second in command while overseeing the center's technical and operational functions. His extensive knowledge of emergency communications technology and equipment made him an important resource to the center and its staff. In May 2012, JR became Director of the 911 Center. During his decade as director, he managed a staff of 25 dispatchers, oversaw approximately 180,000 calls annually, ensured compliance with state requirements, and led preparations for the transition to Next Generation 911 services. On July 1, 2022, JR began serving as Henry County's Deputy County Administrator. In that role, he has helped oversee county operations and numerous projects, including improvements to the County Administration Building to enhance accessibility and ADA compliance, the demolition of the former Henry County Jail, and the initiation of a feasibility study for a new Animal Services Building. Looking back on his career, JR said the opportunity to serve others has been the most meaningful part of his work. “When I look back over the past 31 years, I am most proud of the people I have had the opportunity to work with and serve alongside,” Powell said. “From my time in the Marine Corps, to the 911 Center, and ultimately to County Administration, I have been fortunate to work with people who care deeply about their community. I am grateful for the trust that has been placed in me throughout my career, and I am proud to have played a small part in making Henry County a better place. I will certainly miss the people, but I leave knowing that I have given this community everything I could.” County Administrator Dale Wagoner said JR's career exemplifies a commitment to public service that extends well beyond any single position. “JR's career is a remarkable example of what it means to be a public servant,” Wagoner said. “He has spent his entire professional life serving others, from defending our country as a Marine, to protecting our community through emergency communications, and ultimately helping lead the operations of Henry County. JR has brought tremendous knowledge, experience, dependability and dedication to every position he has held. More importantly, he has always understood that public service is ultimately

about people. His contributions to this organization and this community will be felt for many years to come, and we are grateful for the 31 years he has given to Henry County.” Throughout his career, JR has also contributed to the community through service on numerous boards and organizations, including the Community Policy and Management Team, Piedmont Adult Drug Court, Virginia E911 Services Board, Piedmont Regional Criminal Justice Training Academy Board, Dan River Alcohol Safety Action Program Board, and the Henry County Employee Activities Committee. He has also served as Worship Leader at CrossPoint Church. Henry County recognized Powell's retirement and 31 years of public service during its September 22 meeting of the Henry County Board of Supervisors.

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Source note: Star News TV · Sep 29, 2026 3:16 PM.