Arrington Improved VDOT Quality, Efficiency

Born in Patrick County, Virginia to Samuel Sparrill Arrington and Sarah Lula (Martin) Arrington, William Woodrow Arrington – known as Woodrow – was the second child and oldest son of four sons and five daughters. At age six, Mr. Arrington and his family moved from Patrick County to Amelia County, settling in an area known as “Little Patrick."

Mr. Arrington married the former Sallie Everease Maxey in Amelia on June 15, 1948 and together they raised a daughter, Carolyn Emeline Arrington. He began his career as a farmer, raising livestock, fruits, and vegetables as well as five acres of tobacco. In 1965, during a downturn in farming, he went to work for the Virginia Department of Transportation joining other Arrington family members who also worked for the commonwealth, including his daughter, Carolyn, a brother, Samuel and a sister Carrie (Arrington) Hall.

At VDOT, he maintained state roads and protected travelers by directing work zone traffic. His inventive nature and strong work ethic prompted him to look for ways to improve the quantity, quality, and efficiency of his daily work.  Mr. Arrington remained devoted to his fellow citizens throughout his career, often putting his holiday activities aside to quickly drive to the Amelia residency to work when only a few flakes of snow were falling.

Mr. Arrington shared a love and close connection – along with his family – for the mountains of Virginia from which he came.  His family is certain that he would have especially enjoyed the beautiful view from the VDOT Workers' Memorial on Afton Mountain.