Former Delegate Charles Poindexter remembered as devoted public servant

Poindexter served in the Virginia House of Delegates for 14 years, representing the 9th district

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Former Virginia House of Delegates representative Charles Douglas 'Charlie' Poindexter passed away at his home on February 4 at the age of 83. Poindexter served in the House from 2008 to 2022, representing the 9th district which included Patrick, Henry, and Franklin counties. He was also a member of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors for eight years, representing the Union Hall District.

Why it matters

Poindexter was remembered as a dedicated public servant who never forgot his roots in Franklin County. He was praised for his commitment to his community, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the country, as well as his unwavering principles and straightforward approach to legislating.

The details

During his 14 years in the House of Delegates, Poindexter was known for his no-nonsense style and devotion to his constituents. Even as he accomplished things on the state level, he remained grounded in his farming roots, often found working the family land near Glade Hill on hot summer days. Colleagues described him as a 'true citizen legislator' who never changed from his core values, even when in the state capital.

  • Poindexter served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2008 to 2022.
  • He passed away at his home on February 4, 2026.

The players

Charles Douglas 'Charlie' Poindexter

A former member of the Virginia House of Delegates who represented the 9th district from 2008 to 2022. He was also a member of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors for eight years.

Will Pace

Poindexter's legislative assistant for eight years, who said working for Poindexter was one of the highlights of his life.

Bill Stanley

A Virginia state senator who described Poindexter as 'one of the finest men Southwest Virginia ever produced.'

Morgan Griffith

A U.S. Representative who said he enjoyed working with Poindexter in the House of Delegates to promote the Republican Party and deliver solutions for rural communities.

Dave Hoback

The Stuart vice-mayor who worked with Poindexter during his tenure with the West Piedmont Planning District Commission and appreciated Poindexter's straightforward approach.

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What they’re saying

“In 2014, I left a dream job in Washington, D.C. to take a chance of working in state government. Charles and his wife Janet, welcomed me like family, and it was like a family. Honestly, I was worried at first (a new job will do that), but I cherished the experience working for Delegate Poindexter, especially making new friends in Franklin County. When I was elected in 2016 to the Chatham Town Council, he provided important advice and lessons to serve in elected office.”

— Will Pace, Poindexter's legislative assistant (Facebook)

“Charlie Poindexter was the real thing. He was a man of deep conviction, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his community, his Commonwealth, and his country. He was a farmer, an engineer, a father, a husband, and for more than two decades a dedicated public servant who never forgot where he came from and never forgot who he was serving.”

— Bill Stanley, Virginia state senator (Virginia General Assembly)

“I enjoyed working with him in the House of Delegates to promote the Republican Party and deliver solutions for rural communities. I am praying for his wife, Janet, his family, and his community as we mourn the loss of a good man, legislative leader, and rural community advocate.”

— Morgan Griffith (U.S. House of Representatives)

What’s next

The House of Delegates adjourned in Poindexter's honor on February 5, 2026.

The takeaway

Poindexter's legacy as a devoted public servant who remained true to his rural roots and values is a model for elected officials seeking to effectively represent their communities. His commitment to bipartisanship and getting things done for his constituents is something that is sorely needed in today's polarized political climate.