Robert Leon Sexton, age 77, of Hilltop Drive in Independence died unexpectedly on Sunday morning, January 2, 2022. Mr. Sexton was born in the Black Rock Community of Independence on Christmas Day in 1944 to Muncy Summit and Birdie Lee Cassell Sexton.  His childhood home, commonly known as the "home place", remained throughout his lifetime a sanctuary of peace, housing a host of memories and reflections that remained dear to him.  On the first day of 2022, an unusually warm and beautiful day, he returned to the home place and walked again the paths of his youth along the creek banks and enjoyed reflecting on the front porch.

Mr. Sexton will be remembered for his kind and gentle nature.  He lived an honest life that was dedicated to hard work while adhering to a creed of honesty and simplicity.    He enjoyed traveling in the western states and in the Cherokee areas of the Smokey Mountains.  He was dedicated to his two dogs, Romeo and Lady.  Mr. Sexton was a Bill Elliott and Davy Allison fan, and in later years expanded his allegiance to include anybody who was a "Ford Driver."  He was a dedicated worker at Vaughan Furniture retiring after 45 years of service.

Mr. Sexton is survived by his only son, Ronald Sexton is of Independence, VA; one sister, Lockey Kirk of Independence; brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Betty Jane Sexton of Comers Rock, VA; sister-in-law, Gardella Sexton of Independence; several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Sexton was preceded in death by two brothers, Lawrence Sexton and John Mack Sexton and two sisters, Helen Barrios and Lucille Kirk.

Funeral services to honor his life will be conducted on Friday, January 7, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel by Rev.Bob Cheeks and Rev. Danny Pruitt and nephew, David Kirk.  The family will receive friends one  hour prior to the funeral at the funeral home.  Committal and burial will immediately follow in the Saddle Creek Cemetery.

Flowers are appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to the Independence Rescue Squad PO BOX 607 Independence, Virginia 24348.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Independence is serving the Sexton family.