Robert W. Silling Jr.

Robert W. Silling Jr. SMITHFIELD - Robert "Bob" Walker Silling Jr. passed away Feb. 18, 2009, in Riverside Convalescent Center after a lengthy illness. Bob was a native and lifelong Isle of Wight resident. He was the son of the late Robert W. Sr. and Arabelle S. Batten Silling. Bob was a graduate of the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School and retired from the shipyard as a supervisor in hull design in 1980 after 42 years of service. He was one of the oldest living members of Christ Episcopal Church and was confirmed in the faith at the age of five. Bob loved the outdoors and was passionate about fishing. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a grandson, David Silling. A loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, Bob leaves to celebrate his memories his wife of 66 years, Evelyn Armstrong Silling; his daughter, Elizabeth "Betty" Dubinsky and her husband Bob of Smithfield; his son, the Rev. Robert "Bobby" W. Silling III and his wife Edith of Grottoes, Va.; three grandchildren, Philip Silling, Michael Dubinsky and Amanda Dubinsky. A graveside funeral will be conducted at 11 p.m. Saturday in Ivy Hill Cemetery with the Rev. Macon Walton officiating. The family and friends will gather for visitation 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday in Colonial Funeral Home. The family expresses special thanks to Riverside Convalescent Center, the doctor and staff, and Riverside Hospice for their care and support during Mr. Silling's illness. Arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, Smithfield.