Robert Thompson Tavenner

Robert Thompson Tavenner, 88, of Richmond, VA. passed away on Saturday, December 8, 2012. He was born on October 23, 1924 in Clifton Forge, VA. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Frances Lee Tavenner, he is survived by his sister Martha T. Sutherland, his children R. Gaines Tavenner (Lynn), William H. Tavenner (Barbara), and Susan T. Frank (Billy); grandchildren Josh Frank (Kathryn), Will Frank (Caitlin), and Katie Frank (Rob Bunting); Jack Tavenner, Cab Tavenner, and Ben Tavenner; great grandchildren Campbell Frank and Charlotte Frank. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, coming ashore on D-Day with the 238th Combat Engineers. He was injured in fighting near St. Mere Eglise several days later for which he received the Purple Heart. Bob attended the University of Virginia after the war where he met Frances Lee. He worked for The Life Insurance Company of Virginia from which he retired as senior Vice President. Bob was a long time member of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. An avid sportsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing (on the Cowpasture river) and many hours of golf at Hermitage Country Club. The family will receive friends at the Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N Parham Rd on Monday, December 10, 2012 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at 11:00 am at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Forest Ave. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Meals on Wheels, or a charity of your choice.