Robert Huffman Sr.

Robert L. Huffman Sr. NORFOLK - Robert Lee Huffman Sr., 84, passed away peacefully at his residence Sunday, June 21, 2009. He was a native of Norfolk and the son of the late Claude and Grace Huffman. Robert was a decorated veteran of World War II. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1942 until 1946 aboard the USS Leedstown (APA56). He earned several Navy commendations including the World War II Victory Medal. Following the war he owned an operated several service stations in the Tidewater area, managing the Texaco brand for more than 30 years. Robert volunteered service for many years as a member of the Crossroads Lions Club. He held many positions including president, zone chairman and deputy district governor. He also earned many awards for his service in helping the blind. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Gladys Mae Brown of Roanoke. They were married Dec. 1, 1946. He is survived by their six children, four of which were members of the Norfolk Police Department, Kandie Rice and her husband Merle A. Rice II of Jacksonville, Fla., retired officer Claude C. Huffman, retired investigator Melodie Joseph and her husband retired investigator Mo Joseph, Robert "Bobby" Huffman Jr. who worked with Robert in the service station business, former officer Kay Huffman Turner and her husband retired investigator Jeff Turner and current captain David Huffman and his wife Amy. Robert was beloved by his grandchildren whom they affectionately called "Pop." He is survived by 15 grandchildren and their spouses: Billy Law Jr., Kerry and Samantha Law, Lorin Huffman, Cari Huffman, Ryan Dickerson and his wife Ashley, Kristen Joseph, Michael Joseph, Alex Huffman Joseph, Julie Hudgins and husband James, Robbie Huffman, Drew Turner, Robin Turner, Zachary Huffman, Jakob Huffman and Matthew Huffman. Robert also has four great-grandchildren: Alex Law, Drew Law, Casey Law and James Hudgins Jr. Robert is also survived by his brother Frank Huffman, also a former Norfolk police officer and his wife Pat, a sister, Christine Stewart and numerous nieces and nephews. A viewing will take place today, June 23, 2009, from 7 until 9 p.m. in Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk. The funeral will take place Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at 1 p.m., also at Woodlawn Funeral Home. Please send donations in honor of Robert to the Wounded Warriors Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.woodlawngroup.com.