Joseph E. Proffit

Joseph Edwin Proffit
Born	(1876-03-24) March 24, 1876 Floyd, Virginia, U.S.
Died	February 27, 1958(1958-02-27) (aged 81) Roanoke, Virginia, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Lawyer, politician, bank president, diplomat
Years active	1902–1956
Known for	Member of the Virginia House of Delegates (1944–1956), American consul in Johannesburg (1902–1909)

Joseph Edwin Proffit (March 24, 1876 – February 27, 1958) was a Virginia-based lawyer and politician in the United States. From 1944 until 1956, he represented the counties of Floyd and Carroll in the Virginia House of Delegates.

Early life

Proffit was born in Floyd, Virginia and completed his early education in local public schools. He furthered his studies at the Danville Military Institute, followed by degrees from College of William & Mary and Yale Law School.

Career

Between 1902 and 1909, Proffit held the post of American consul in Johannesburg. He maintained a legal practice in Floyd for nearly five decades, collaborating professionally with Kyle M. Weeks.

Affiliated with the Republican Party, Proffit led the Floyd County Republican committee during his legislative tenure. Additionally, he served as president of the Bank of Floyd.

In 1945, both Proffit and his associate Weeks faced allegations involving assistance to William Reeves Gardner in the improper use of funds from the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Fredericksburg. Proffit was found guilty on one charge in 1947, resulting in a sentence of three months imprisonment and a $5,000 penalty. Nevertheless, he was acquitted in January 1948; Weeks received a fine for his involvement.

Personal life

Proffit was married to Anne Simmons, daughter of George Simmons.

He passed away on February 27, 1958, at a hospital in Roanoke and was interred at Jacksonville Cemetery.