Rob Coles

Rob Coles Rob Coles, 61, the fifth great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson, died in peace and grace at his home in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Tuesday, September 17, 2013. He was predeceased by his parents, Roberts Coles and Doris Rafferty Coles; and his brother, Edward J. Coles. He is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia Valentine Coles; his sisters, Margaret Coles Anderson and Caroline Coles Merrick, and their husbands, William J. Anderson and Dr. Randolph V. Merrick; and his brother, John Coles and his wife, Julia Evans Coles; his nieces and nephews, Charlotte Randolph Anderson, William Seth Anderson, Julia Fraley Coles, Peyton Evans Coles, Sloane M. Coles, Francis M Gehman, D. Coles Merrick, and Thomas A. Merrick; and sisters-in-law, Anne Willis Coles and Lydia Valentine Farley, George Coles Jr., many other loving cousins, and his many friends throughout the world. Rob was born on May 7, 1952. He grew up at Cloverfields Farm in Keswick, Virginia. He graduated from St. Christopher's School in Richmond, and was an alumnus of The University of Virginia. His unequaled portrayal of Thomas Jefferson lasted for over 35 years. He was nationally and internationally acclaimed, and brought joy and understanding to the thousands who came to hear him. He appeared on many national programs, including To Tell the Truth, and The Today Show. Rob was a friend to so many of us. We will miss his laughter, his goodness, and his kindness. He was a Gentleman in the finest tradition of the University. From the C&O to Timberlakes, from The University to Monticello, from "Rugby Road to Vinegar Hill", we salute you, Rob. We take comfort in the knowledge that Rob is now in the House of the Lord, and that he will make many friends there. A memorial service will be held at Grace Episcopal Church in Cismont on Sunday, October 13, 2013, at 4 p.m. Hill and Wood is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Luke's Church, Simeon, PO Box 694, Charlottesville, VA 22902-0694 or Caring for Creatures, 352 Sanctuary Lane, Palmyra, VA 22963.

This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.