Robert Lee Stokes

Robert Lee Stokes, Sr., affectionately known as "Pops," passed away on April 9, 2026, at the age of 93 in Charlottesville, Virginia. A man of great class, dignity, and unwavering faith, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Born on September 30, 1932, in Meherrin, Virginia, to the late Juanita Stokes and Robert E. L. Stokes, Robert grew up in a time that demanded resilience and determination. He graduated from Bluestone Harmony Academy in Keysville, Virginia, a private school founded in 1898 by several African American Baptist churches, where he first cultivated the strength of character that would define his life. Undeterred by the barriers of his era, he pursued higher education with extraordinary resolve, earning both his undergraduate and master's degrees from Virginia State University and later completing his doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Along the way, Robert met the love of his life, Emma Reavis, while working at Lunenburg High School in Victoria, Virginia. Married in 1955, they shared sixty years of unwavering devotion and companionship, building a life rooted in faith and family. Together, they raised two sons, Robert Jr. "Bobby" and Roderick "Ricky," who were the pride and joy of their lives. A passionate lover of sports, Robert held a special affection for basketball, a passion made even more meaningful as both of his sons played at the University of Virginia. He took immense delight in watching them excel on and off the court, remaining their most devoted supporter through every milestone. Bobby and Ricky went on to build families of their own, blessing Robert with four beloved granddaughters--Lauren, Jordan, Maggie, and Sydney--and one great-grandson, Oscar. He was a pillar of his family, serving as its steadfast steward, mentor, and guide, always carrying himself with quiet strength and deep compassion.
Robert honorably served his country as a commissioned officer in the United States Army. Following his military service, he dedicated his professional life to the advancement of education in Virginia. He served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal at Gretna High School in Gretna, Virginia, Lord Botetourt High School in Fincastle, Virginia, and Hamilton Holmes High School in King William, Virginia, shaping the lives of countless students and educators. Robert and Emma ultimately settled down in Richmond, Virginia, where he worked for the Virginia State Department of Education until his retirement in 1994.
A devout and lifelong member of Springfield Baptist Church in Meherrin, Virginia, Robert faithfully served as Chairman of the Deacon Board for 40 years, guiding his congregation with the same wisdom and integrity he brought to every endeavor. His faith was the foundation of his life, and his spiritual leadership was a blessing to his church and community.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Emma Stokes, nee Reavis; his parents, Robert and Juanita Stokes; and his sister, Lois Pierce. He is survived by his sons, Robert Stokes, Jr. (Sue) and Roderick Stokes (Karen); his granddaughters, Lauren Stokes Tessler (Scott), Jordan Williams (Daniel), Madeline "Maggie" Davis (Matthew), and Sydney Stokes; his great-grandson, Oscar Tessler; his sisters, Christine Fowlkes and Naomi Whitehead; along with a host of other relatives and dear friends who cherished him.
A viewing will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on April 18, 2026, at Springfield Baptist Church in Meherrin, Va., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. The Reverend Dr. Ozie Bradford will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Springfield Baptist Church at 1784 Springfield Rd, Meherrin, Virginia 23954.