Roland Battleson

BATTLESON, Roland Eddy "Ed," passed away on Saturday, November 28, 2009, surrounded by loved ones. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard J. Battleson. Ed was born in Highland, Illinois on January 15, 1941 and graduated from Texas Wesleyan College in Fort Worth, Texas. Ed was one of the first special agents (Badge No. 1175) with the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the precursor agency to the Drug Enforcement Administration. Recognized many times for his outstanding work, this included a special commendation from U.S. Rep. Carl Albert, Speaker of the House. A special agent for over 20 years, Ed ultimately became a U.S. Customs aviation officer, flying surveillance operations along the U.S.-Mexico border. After moving to Virginia, he was a Substance Abuse counselor for MP-NN CSB and a local probation officer for Community Corrections in Warsaw, Va. He also volunteered with troubled teens and their parents. He later worked part-time as a mail carrier for the U.S. Post Office in Urbanna, Va. Ed was more than a father, son, brother, or friend; he was a hero. Many lived a fuller, enriched life due to his words and guidance. We will never forget his charm, spirit, confidence and witty, ever-sharp sense of humor. He is survived by his mother, Mariella Battleson; partner, O'Connell McKeon; daughters, Robin Barber, Rebecca Chambers (Greg), Rachel Battleson, Regina Mariella Price (Billy); grandsons, Dylan and Ryan Chambers, Grant and Colt Buonviri; sisters, Mary Lou Shindler (Elliott), Melinda Collier; brothers, Philip, Andrew (Katherine). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Court, Glen Allen, Va. 23060, or Children's Medical Services International, 1107 Grove Avenue, Richmond, Va. 23220.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.