Robert F. Stradley
FRANKLIN—Robert Francis “Bobby” Stradley, 74, died July 14, 2009.
Mr. Stradley was born Nov. 10, 1934 in Murfreesboro, N.C., the youngest son of the late William Charles and Blanche Bess Stradley.
When he was a young child, the family moved to Franklin where they made their home.
He was a 1952 graduate of Franklin High School and then served in the U. S. Navy.
On Dec. 29, 1956, he married the love of his life, Gail Thompson. Together, they had three daughters, Fran, Robin and Mary Beth.
He treasured his three girls individually for who they are. His family was his life and he gave them all he could. He was retired from his painting and wallpaper business.
In recent years, he has revelled in the joy of his three grandsons, Dillon Taylor, Matthew Lassiter and Lucas Dooley.
He has also enjoyed his two sons-in-law, Tim Lassiter and Michael Dooley. Fran’s friend, Larry Neave, has also been a faithful companion to Bobby.
Survivors include his younger sister, Clara S. Worrell and husband James of Holland; half sister, Edith Lovitt and daughter Carol of Georgia; sister-in-law, Sylvia Stradley of the Dockside community near Franklin; and a multitude of nieces and nephews who always brought him happiness and love.
His brothers, Ralph T. and Charles N. Stradley, half brothers, J.Q. and William Henderson, and half sister, Blanche Karnes predeceased him.
In his final days, the family came together to remember all the great times they were blessed to share with him.
Bobby’s easy personality and loving manner enabled him to fill his life with many special friends and family. Some have gone on before, some remain.
His life was filled with laughter and good times shared with friends who became family.
He was blessed to have his life touched by these special people. Some of those that Bobby held dear to his heart are Donnie and Nancy Wright, Carroll and Joyce Vick and Gerry and Margie Burt.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Franklin Congregational Christian Church with Rev. James H. Hyatt officiating.
A private graveside service will be held for the family. The family will receive friends at the residence.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to the Franklin Congregational Christian Church, 418 N. High Street, Franklin, VA 23851.
Wright Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences may be offered to www.wrightfuneralhome.org.