First day back in session: senators remember Beau Biden

Senator David McBride shared words from Anne Bronte’s Farewell poem in Legislative Hall on Tuesday; “Farewell to thee, but not farewell. To all my nicest thoughts of thee, within my heart, they still shall dwell.”

Those words were a part of the first day to session for Delaware State Senators since the passing of their friend, colleague, and as some describe, family member; former Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden.

Senators turned their grief into a celebration of life dedicating the start of their session to share fond memories.

Senator Greg Lavelle focused on remembering the family man. He recalled a moment seeing Biden as a frazzled, but happy father letting his son Hunter dress himself.

Senator Lavelle says, “Cowboy boots, shorts, and shirts. It didn’t match. It was as cute as can be. You could see Beau’s priority in that little boy and in his family.”

Senator Robert Marshall highlighted Biden’s unwavering work ethic. “He and a part of his staff were here because they camped out in my office. They were working on the first slate of a constitutional amendment. They were here until after the midnight hour.”

Others like Senator David Lawson mourned lost opportunity. He continues, “Tomorrow is not ours. I missed an opportunity to know Beau Biden even better. I’m sorry about that.”

However, some are just holding on to the moments they treasured. Senator Karen Peterson worked with Vice President Joe Biden, and knowing Beau since he was just three years old, shared the last thing she said to him.

Senator Peterson goes on, “I’ll always love you. He said I love you too and we hugged. They were our last words and I’ll always cherish that.”

To continue his legacy, the senators made a vow to continue Biden’s tradition of public service with compassion and integrity.

Senator McBride replies, “We pledge to keep him in our hearts and we pray that you God keep him in your embrace.”

Others are also finding ways to honor Beau Biden for years to come. The Delaware Community Foundation announced this morning the creation of a new charity.

The Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children has the goal of continuing Biden’s life passion of helping those who he felt were most vulnerable.

Beau’s widow Hallie is working closely with the foundation that we’re told will quote, “stand up and speak out for those in the greatest need of a voice.” The Delaware Community Foundation says it couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to work with the Biden family.

William Allan, the Senior Vice President for Southern Delaware for the Delaware Community Foundation says, “Given the news that we heard this weekend and the idea that we’re going to be able to work and create this foundation and contribute to a cause that was so special to Beau, we’re just so honored to be a part of it.”  

We’re told if anyone would like to make a contribution to the Beau Biden charity you can click here to do so.