Robert "Rip" Deane

Robert Alexander "RIP" Deane, 81, of Lynchburg, Virginia went to be with the Lord on October 12th, 2024. 

Robert was born on August 13th, 1943, in Lynchburg, VA, at his home, to Thomas H. Deane and Bernice N. Walker Deane. 

Robert lived a wonderful life full of faith, love, and service to his community. He went to Dunbar High School, where he began his love for track, and then went on to attend Kentucky State University on a track and field scholarship. Robert later selflessly served our country as a member of the United States Marine Corps from 1964-1968. He ended his vocational career at Babcock & Wilcox/Areva/Framatome as a Laser Beam Welder, who excelled at what he did. 

Robert was saved at a young age and has since faithfully served the Lord. He was a longtime member of New Dearington Baptist Church and has been a servant in the church in various roles— Usher Board member, choir member, Treasurer, and groundskeeper, just to name a few. He had a generous spirit, always willing to offer his assistance where needed.

While words cannot fully express who Robert was, it is important to know that he was a joyful man who was passionate about music. As previously mentioned, he served on his church’s choir, and he often sang along to various gospel songs at home, while pretending to direct as well. Some of his favorite songs include, “Marvelous”, “Total Praise”, and “I Love the Lord”.

Finally, Robert deeply cherished his family and close friends. He often spent time with them sharing laughter, eating good food, and simply being available when needed. 

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas H. Deane and Bernice N. Walker Deane, and wife, Evangeline S. Deane. 

In addition to his devoted life partner and best friend, Andrea M. Graves (Lynchburg, VA), Robert is survived by his two brothers, with whom he shared a special bond: Ernest W. Deane (Lynchburg, VA) and Henry H. Deane (Madison Heights, VA); beloved children: Rhonda T. Watkins (Glen Allen, VA), Nicole T. Deane (Lynchburg, VA), Diallo D. Graves (Lynchburg, VA), and Ayanna M. Graves (Whitsett, NC); treasured grandchildren: Aysha L. Graves (Colorado Springs, CO), Jabari A. Watlington (Whitsett, NC), Kameron A. Deane (Lynchburg, VA), Diallo Graves Jr. (Lynchburg, VA), and Auriel L. Alston (Whitsett, NC); and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

The family will receive friends at 403 Hood Street, Lynchburg, VA 24501.

A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, October 21, 2024 at 2:00 pm at New Dearington Baptist Church.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com