Grace Tinsley

I was deeply saddened by the recent death of Grace Tinsley, a long-time community leader. A school nurse, Grace and her husband Robert were very involved in the local civil rights movement, and she was the first African-American on the school board. She also served on the PVCC board, and was the driving force in Charlottesville getting a public defender's office. Grace was tenacious - the legislation for a public defender's office was passed 4 years in a row by the general assembly, and each year vetoed by George Allen, before finally passed and signed. She was smart - very smart - with a sharp sense of humor and an infectious laugh. A mentor and advisor to many recent city officials. Fairminded and tough, and a good friend, and someone Jean and I will really miss.