Robert Ellis Stokes Jr

Robert “Bobby” Ellis Stokes Jr., 66, of Yorktown, VA passed away peacefully at his home November 4th, 2019. He was born to parents Bob and Margie Stokes, on September 23rd, 1953, in San Diego, California. He is survived by his mother, Margie Ambrose; four beautiful children Ashley Peet & husband John, Brook Holloway, Corey Stokes, and his son Bobby Stokes III; younger brother, Del Stokes & wife Janet of Jacksonville, FL; younger sister, Rhonda Pappas and husband Pete; six nieces and nephews, Jeremiah, Tasha, Troy of Jacksonville, FL and Marlee, Jamie, Deme; five grandchildren, Devin Lapp, Shamas Pope, Tori Holloway, Tyler Stokes, and Colton Peet; one great grandson, Liam Lapp; and three stepchildren, MeLaina, Hunter, & Jake.
Bobby graduated from York High School in 1971 where he was a star athlete in baseball, football, basketball, and track. His nickname was “the smoker” because he could outrun all of his teammates and his competition. Bobby was a United States Navy veteran who honorably served 6 years active duty onboard USS Saratoga (4 years with his brother Del) and the USS Vulcan. While serving in the United States Navy, stationed at the Recruit Training Command in Orlando, FL, Bobby received a certificate as Honor Recruit of Company 119, which was presented by Rear Admiral Kenneth G. Haynes, USN. After separating from service, he worked as a contractor at NASA Langley Research Center for Wyle Laboratories and Jacobs Technology, where he retired in 2015.
Bobby loved collecting coins. He earned the name “quarter granddaddy” because he always gave his grandkids a pocket full of quarters and he wore that name proudly. He used to carry a harmonica in his pocket and would randomly play songs. Bobby loved the color black and it was rare to catch him wearing anything other than that. To an outsider he appeared to be a “tough guy” with his long hair, bandanas, biker gloves, and tattoos but anyone who ever met Bobby knew that he truly had the kindest and warmest heart and he loved everyone. There was nothing that Bobby loved more than his four children: Ashley, Brook, Corey, and Bobby III. He was so proud of them and he never went a day without telling a co-worker, neighbor, friend, family member, or even a complete stranger about how much he loved them. We love you too, Dad, to the moon and back.
Bobby revered God; he loved his family unconditionally; he was an American patriot; and those who met him considered him their friend. Bobby was loved by everyone. Whatever was going on in his life, he always found the time to check on others and wanted them to know that he genuinely cared. He was handsome, thoughtful and willing to help anybody. His memory and spirit will live on through his family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 11th from 2-5 pm. We chose to honor his life on Veterans Day, as he was proud to have served our great nation. A private graveside service will take place at a later date with his close family. As Bobby would want a huge celebration, everyone is welcome to attend. Please dress casually and comfortably; maybe wear something black in his honor. Feel free to bring something to eat, drink and most importantly bring lots of laughter and celebration in memory of this wonderful man. Please email stokestradition@nullgmail.com for the location or any information regarding his Celebration of Life.