Bob Holton
Bob Fred Holton, 76, of Staunton, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on November 5, 1948 in Palestine, Texas, but spent most of his life in Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Netta Mae Holton and his brother, Nathan Holton.
He is survived by his wife, Brenda (DeCamillis) Holton, who was his childhood friend that he married on June 19, 1971; and his in-laws, John and Charlene DeCamillis.
Bob was employed by the Town of Bridgewater for 46 years and was an adjunct member of James Madison University faculty for 23 years.
The following is written by Bob himself and we wanted share what he had to say:
“When I was growing up, many people saw me only as the son of an alcoholic and brother of a drug addict. Brenda looked deeper and decided I was someone worthy of her friendship. Later that friendship turned to love. She brought me into her life and gave meaning to mine. I am forever grateful that she saw me worthy of her love.
Later in life, the “Slagell girls””, as I called them, became a part of my family. Over the last 24+years of my life, Catherine, Rachel, and Diana became dear friends. Catherine, especially, gave new meaning to the words friendship and loyalty. I will never forget the joy Catherine, Rachel, and Diana brought to my life. Sometimes the word “family” can include more than blood relatives. These wonderful young women were certainly family to me.
The word “family” also includes the dozens of dogs and cats that have shared their lives with mine. I know my dogs, Waffle, Roamy, and Chole will never understand why I didn’t come home this time, but I hope they always feel love I had for them. I look forward to seeing them someday on the Other Side, as well as all those pets that preceded me in death.
Finally, if there is one thing I know about my life, it’s this… from the moment I was born to the day I died, I have been surrounded by people who loved me. When you have that going for you, the day-to-day problems of life seem pretty small. In the movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life”, it takes divine intervention before the main character, George Bailey, can appreciate what his family, work, and friends meant to him. I have known it all along! I truly had a wonderful life!”
Per Bob’s wishes, there will be no formal services.
Memorial Contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the Augusta Health Foundation c/o Shenandoah Hospice, P.O. Box 1000, Fishersville, Virginia 22939.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Charlton and Groome Funeral Home in Fishersville.
Share condolences and memories online with the family by visiting www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.
