Robert Gattis

Robert Earl Gattis, 78, passed away peacefully January 9, 2011.

Mr. Gattis was born March 9, 1932 in Edgecombe County, North Carolina to the late Clifford and Mattie Gattis. He was a Pump Station Foreman for the City of Norfolk until his retirement in 1988. Robert loved being outdoors being on the Golf course and spending time with his family and friends. He will always be remembered as loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 54 years, Helen Gattis; son, Robert Earl Gattis, Jr.; daughter, Leah Jean Gattis Harrelson and husband Edward Randall Harrelson; brother, George Gattis; three sisters: Virginia Williamson and husband Kenneth Daniel, Helen M. Hushour, and Ruby C. Askew; two grandchildren, Rebecca Jean Mason, SSgt Edward Scott Harrelson, USMC; and a great-grandson, Jonathan Hunter Mason.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00am, Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, Norfolk Chapel. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Kidney Foundation. Please share your love and condolences with the family at www.smithandwilliamsnorfolk.com