Robert Edward Battle

Robert Edward Battle, “Student”, “Eddie B.”, “Mr. B”, eldest son of Edward and Olivia Garrett Battle, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 22, 2015 at Nash UNC Health Care. He was born on December 7, 1931 in Edgecombe County, NC and was a graduate of Nashville High School, Nashville, NC. At an early age, he joined St. John’s Baptist Church, Red Oak. He was a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church in Nash County, and could always be seen in his favorite seat in the deacon’s corner. He was also previously a member of Pittman Grove. He loved the Lord and was always willing to help others when he was able. In the ‘70s, he was ordained a deacon by Bishop Steadman. Robert was an avid bowler for many years and also loved to sing at church as well as with traveling groups in the Metropolitan New York area. In New Haven, Connecticut, he was Worshipful Master of the Solid Rock Masons #4, also Past Master and Grand Master of the State of Connecticut. Robert worked for the Federal Government (FBI) about 25 years and retired from Sargent Lock Company. Preceding him in death was two sisters, Lena Young and Ernestine Lewis, and one brother, Richard Earl. Robert met his wife, Rae Hilton Battle, in Greenwich, Connecticut and of this union, there was one son, Wesley (Carmery). He also leaves to cherish his memory, ten daughters, Eula Mae DeBerry and Angela Deloach of Charlotte, NC, Connie (Charles) Bronson of New Haven, CT, Selena Jones of Durham, NC, Linda Battle of Maryland, Faye (Shane) Jenkins of Washington, DC, Kathleen and Katherine Battle of San Francisco, Calif, Bridgette and Darleen; four sons, Eddie III (Liz) of West Virginia, Rufus of Maryland, Kevin of Philadelphia, and Wayne of Durham, NC; two brothers, Jessie (Helen) and James of Rocky Mount, NC; three sister-in-laws, Maggie Deloach, Willa Mae Everett (Roosevelt) and Dorothy Turner (Ernest); thirty-nine grandchildren, thirty-six great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. The visitation will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2015 from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Johnson Funerals and Cremations, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC. The Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Johnson Funerals and Cremations with Pastor, D. Keith Miller officiating. Music will be provided by Rodney Sherrod. Interment will follow in Rocky Mount Memorial Park after the service. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; 2 Timothy 4:7 Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funerals and Cremations, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount NC www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com