Robert "Rob" W. Staton

Robert William Staton (Rob, Robbie, or Bob) of Roanoke County, Virginia, aged 85, passed away on April 15, 2025. He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna (Angel or Eddie) Martin Staton, his parents, Harry and Frances Hayden Staton; and his brothers, Ivan (Pete) and Donald Staton. He is survived by his sons, Paul (Buddy) Rhoades (Robin), Kimball Staton (Lisa), and Bradley Staton (Matthew). His grandchildren; Andrea Farmer (Chase), Zachary Rhoades (Jackie), Jami Staton, and Shannon Gibson (Michael). His great-grandchildren: Blakely, Finley, Eleanor, Gabriel, Cally, Kori and Alexis. His special friend, Barbara Cochran. He is also survived by his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends all over the country and friendships have been forged from his and Angel’s home away from home at Sand Pebble Resort at Treasure Island, FL.

Robbie was born on April 12, 1940, in Clifton Forge, VA. He and his family moved to Roanoke in 1943 and to Salem on Wildwood Road in 1945, where he lived most of his life. Robbie graduated from Andrew Lewis High School in 1958 and attended National Business College where he earned an associate’s degree in 1960. He went to work for Appalachian Power Company where he retired in 1999 with 39 years of service. On June 15, 2012, he and Angel moved to Walkers Meadow where he was President of the Homeowner’s Association and had a host of good friends in the neighborhood. Robbie loved to work in his yard, work on flowers/plants, or work in his shop. He loved helping his children, friends, and neighbors with almost anything.

Robbie was raised in a Christian home and attended Church his entire life. When Robbie and his family moved to Wildwood Road in 1945, they attended Wildwood Chapel which was part of Salem Presbyterian Church. The Chapel later became Wildwood Presbyterian Church which the family was part of for years. Wildwood Presbyterian Church later became New Hope Presbyterian Church. Robbie served as an Elder, Sunday School Teacher, Treasurer and many other capacities. In 1980, Robbie and his family moved their membership to Salem Presbyterian Church where he served as Deacon, Elder, Sunday School Teacher, Treasurer and on every committee. In 2005, Robbie and Angel moved their membership to Fellowship Community Church where he was a member until his death.

Robert joined the Salem Jaycees when he was 21 years old and served with that organization for 15 years. He was selected as the Outstanding Local President in the Region in 1968-69. He served as the co-chair of the Fourth of July Celebration for the Roanoke Valley Bicentennial Committee in 1976. Robbie served on the Board of Directors at the Roanoke Valley Speech & Hearing Center twice, as a President in 1981 and as Board Chair in 2016.

Robbie loved his family. He, his brothers, and their families, together with his parents, were always very close. He was very proud of his three boys, their spouses, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Robbie was explicit in his wishes for a memorial service. He did not want organ music and whatever music was provided was to be uplifting and happy. He requested those attending his memorial service not to feel like they have to dress up in their finest clothing because the Lord wants all HIS children to come to HIS house regardless of what type of clothing they wore. Robbie did not want any tears but rather laughter at his celebration of life.

The family will welcome friends on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 6 until 8 p.m. at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home for a period of visitation.

A celebration of Rob’s life will be conducted on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Salem Presbyterian Church Columbarium, where he will be interred beside his late wife.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Rob’s memory to Fellowship Community Church; https://fcclife.org/give.

Online condolences may be expressed to the Staton family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.