Robert Earle Covington

Robert E. Covington passed away peacefully on Friday, November 17, 2023 at the age of 85. He had a quiet presence that will be sadly missed and he’ll always hold a place in our hearts. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Covington, his mother Virginia Simms Covington and his sister Carolyn Green (Wheeler). He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Donna R. Covington; his children Andrea Van Scoik, Carrie Covington and Robert H. Covington; his grandchildren Julie Van Scoik and David Van Scoik; his siblings Rose Covington Rose, George Covington (Ferne), Cecelia Vlk (Frank) and Virginia Harris (Eddie); and many other family members and friends. Robert spent part of his childhood in Panama where he was born and experienced many happy memories that he loved to share. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy (1956-1964) and was stationed in Memphis where he met his wife, Donna. After settling in Detroit, Michigan, he finished his degree at Wayne State University and started a long career with General Electric Superabrasives in Worthington, Ohio and later at BankOne. He was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus Council #5776. To honor Robert’s memory, a private service will be held in December at St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum in Smithfield, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to local food banks or animal shelters. The family would like to thank the staff at Laurels of Willow Creek and Bon Secours Hospice.