Robert Gregory Dummitt

Robert Gregory Dummitt passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024, surrounded by his family.  He was preceded by his parents, George and Beverly Dummitt.

 Robbie is survived by his wife, Deborah Brogan Dummitt, his daughter, Erin Dummitt Trent (Thomas Trent), his son, Evan Robert Lee Dummitt, his grandchildren Tosh Alexander Armstrong, Marley Alysia Ashe Armstrong and Revan Grey Trent. Also, his sisters Pamela Dummitt and Kimberly Gates (Ted Gates) and a brother, Scott Dummitt Craig as well as a host of neices and nephews. 

Robbie was born in Muncie, Indiana, and began a lifelong love of playing the guitar at 5, being mentored by his father, who taught him his first chords. He played in a series of bands around Roanoke beginning when he was a teenager. He was a graduate of William Fleming High School and attended Roanoke College. He was a long-time member of the Vinton Church of Christ and the Blue Ridge Luthiers Guild  

 He was devoted to his family; his grandchildren were the light of his life.  

 He taught himself finger-style guitar, emulating his hero, Chet Atkins. He worked closely with his fanclub, editing the Chet Atkins Society newsletter for several years and was mentored by the master himself. 

 Robbie won a number of awards for his guitar playing and was widely recognized as one of the region's top guitarists. He entertained audiences at festivals, funds-raisers, at church and business gatherings. He was a regular dinner entertainer at The Greenbrier resort, The Homestead and Natural Bridge.

 He taught music lessons for more than 50 years to hundreds of children and adults not just on guitar, but a variety of other stringed instruments. 

 The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to a favorite charity. 

 Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Roanoke, is assisting the family.