Robert Wesley St. John

Born on March 27, 1938, in St. George’s, Grenada, West Indies, Robert was the son of Edward “Foreman” E. St. John and Ellaline St. John. He spent his formative years in Grenada, graduating from the prestigious Grenada Boys’ Secondary School (GBSS). On August 6, 1960, he married the love of his life, Valencia Irma Marcia Hannibal. Together, they embarked on a beautiful, lifelong journey, immigrating to the United States in 1967 to build a future together, initially settling in Brooklyn, New York. Their enduring union spanned an incredible 66 years, serving as a powerful testament to love, partnership, and family devotion. Guided by his Methodist faith, Robert lived a life rooted in love, belief, and community.

Robert pursued higher education with dedication, earning a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from The City University of New York (CUNY). He channeled his expertise into a long and distinguished career as a civil engineer, spending his most impactful years with the Metro-North Commuter Railroad (MTA). There, he dedicated himself to vital projects and the structural planning of railroad infrastructure until his well-earned retirement.

As a father, Robert was defined by his unwavering presence alongside Valencia, he worked tirelessly to provide a beautiful, comfortable, and truly great life for his three children, ensuring they all had opportunities to pursue higher education. He was there for every major milestone, school concert, and sporting event, but he was equally present in the quiet, ordinary moments, making breakfast and lunches in the morning and ensuring he was home every evening for family dinner. Their home was full of laughter, love, and support.

Generous and wonderfully funny, Robert was always quick with a witty reply and ready to crack a joke. His generosity extended far beyond the financial; he gave freely of his time, wisdom, and presence. He and Valencia regularly opened their home for holidays, celebrations, and barbecues where family and friends could gather to eat, laugh, and enjoy being together. Music was fundamental to the way Robert experienced the world. He could frequently be found singing the hits of Nat King Cole and Johnny Mathis, playing the Mighty Sparrow loud enough for all to hear, beautifully whistling smooth jazz, or triumphantly singing "Simply the Best" after victorious games of Scrabble. He was also a passionate sports fan, fiercely cheering for his New York Knicks and New York Jets, and an avid traveler who loved exploring the world on cruises with his wife.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Valencia St. John; his devoted children, James Wesley St. John and his partner Milagros “Millie” Arocho, Cerys Marcia St. John Richter and her husband Nathan, and Sharlene Irma St. John; and his four cherished grandchildren, Ian and Tyler St. John, and Calvin and Naomi Richter. He is also survived by his siblings, Phyllis Murray, Annette Knight, Valerie Muno, and Walter St. John, as well as a large, loving network of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whom he worked so passionately to stay connected with throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Ellaline St. John, and his siblings, Douglass “Sweets” St. John, Maurice St. John, Monty St. John, Roy St. John, Raymond St. John, Norma Buxo, and Nuku St. John.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Turner Funeral Home in Spring Hill, Florida. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Turner Funeral Home.