Robert Guthrie

Robert Lee Guthrie, 79, peacefully entered eternal rest on December 28, 2025, at Methodist Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born December 13, 1946, in Halifax County, Virginia, to the late Rev. Henry G. Guthrie and Mary Cousins Guthrie, he was affectionately known as "Honey," "Brother," "Bobby G.," and "Pappa." Robert lived a life defined by faith, service, leadership, and joy, graced with a smile that could warm a room and a humor that made strangers feel like friends. He accepted Christ early and joined Bethel Grove Baptist Church, where he remained a devoted member throughout his life. He also faithfully attended church services at the Lackland Air Force Base during his years in Texas.
Robert graduated from Mary Bethune High School in 1965 and attended Virginia State College before enlisting in the United States Air Force in January 1967. He proudly served for over 25 years in the U.S. Air Force, rising to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. His career included assignments at Keesler AFB; Misawa, Japan; Goodfellow AFB; San Vito, Italy; Shu Lin Kou, Taiwan; Osan, Korea; and multiple stations at Lackland and Kelly AFB in Texas, as well as temporary duty in several overseas locations, including Vietnam.
Among his many commendations were the Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Outstanding Unit Award with valor device, Organizational Excellence Award, Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star. He was recognized as NCO of the Quarter on several bases and named Senior NCO of the Year for the 6960th Electronic Security Squadron in 1985.
Following his honorable retirement in 1992, Robert continued to serve his community by working with the United States Postal Service for 14 years before fully retiring. He enjoyed sports, golfed for many years, and passionately supported the Washington Redskins/Commanders - especially when it meant teasing Cowboys fans. A dedicated Mason, he was an active member of John T. Maxey Lodge #74, where he served as Past Master and Chaplain, as well as a 32nd Degree Mason and member of the Ancient Arabic Egyptian Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mary Guthrie; his daughter, Tamela R. Guthrie; his brother, Henry G. Guthrie Jr.; two sisters-in-law; two brothers-in-law; and many beloved relatives. Cherishing his memory are his devoted wife of 54 years, Julia "Frances" Guthrie; his daughter, Pamela Nazir; his son-in-law, Waqas Nazir; and his grandchildren, Zain and Zaara Nazir, all of San Antonio, Texas. He is also survived by his brother, James Guthrie, of Clinton, MD; sisters, Delores Guthrie of Upper Marlboro, MD, and Violet Guthrie-Miller of Richmond, VA; his aunt, Deborah Cousins of Erwin, NC; as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Robert will forever be remembered for his kindness, laughter, unwavering faith, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
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