Robert Scott Beale

Williamsburg - Robert Scott “Bob” Beale, 91, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, September 11, 2025, with his beloved wife of 35 years, Mary Ellen Beale, by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Floyd Beale and Aldine Scott Beale; his first wife of 30 years, Audrey Owen Beale; and his brother, Donald Keith Beale.

Born January 24, 1934, Bob was raised in Franklin on Old Scott Farm. Known as “Bobby” in his youth, he attended Franklin High School, where he was class president and the most valuable football player for the class of 1951. After high school, he entered the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), where he excelled in both academics and athletics. A four-year letterman in baseball and a member of the Methodist Club and Armed Forces Club, he graduated with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and commissioned into the U.S. Air Force via ROTC.

Bob’s 24-year Air Force career was distinguished by courage, leadership, and service to country. As a combat fighter pilot with the Wild Weasels in Vietnam, he flew some of the most dangerous missions of the war. For his heroism he received the Air Force Cross, the second-highest decoration for valor in the U.S. Air Force, an honor awarded only in the most exceptional circumstances. He was also awarded the Silver Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Legion of Merit, and several other commendations. Though highly decorated, Bob carried his honors with humility, never seeking recognition for himself but always giving credit to those he served alongside. He later earned a master’s degree from the Air Force Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, and went on to senior leadership, serving as Base Commander in Panama and Wing Commander at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, before retiring as a Colonel and returning home to Franklin and Old Scott Farm.

After the Air Force and the loss of his first wife, Audrey, Bob worked with GE Aircraft Engines and in 1990 married Mary Ellen Beale. Together they traveled, enjoyed time with family, and shared in life’s simple pleasures—golf, bridge, watching sports, and especially Hubs Peanuts.

Family was always at the heart of Bob’s life. He cherished memories of boating, fishing, and water skiing with his children, and later sharing boating and fishing adventures with his grandchildren. When his grandchildren were young, he created “Camp Nansemond,” a summer tradition where all the cousins stayed with him and enjoyed time together. They went to Busch Gardens, Kings Dominion, the beach, and out on the water, making lifelong memories as one big family. As the years went by, Bob carried that spirit forward by reuniting everyone each summer, renting a large house at the beach where children and grandchildren could come together under one roof, enjoying laughter, fun, and love he so carefully nurtured.

Bob was the embodiment of honor and hard work, a man whose life set a shining example for his children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. He was admired not only for his bravery and accomplishments, but also for his humility and kindness. Bob never had a bad word to say about anyone and was always mindful of the needs of others. His character, integrity, and steadfast devotion to family and country will continue to inspire generations to come.

Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen; her children, Page and Kent (Laura); his four sons—Scott (Winifred), Mike (Karen), Pat (Kelli), and Jeff (Katie); 16 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends, including frequent visits from Page’s dog, Ozzie, who brightened his days.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Williamsburg Landing, followed by a hometown gathering at The Vine in Franklin, VA on October 26. Colonel Robert S. Beale, USAF (Ret.), will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the VMI Foundation (www.vmialumni.org/why-give-support-the-corps/ways-to-give/).

His flight is complete, but his legacy soars on.