Louis Robert "Bob" Elia, of Fishersville, Virginia, died unexpectedly on Monday, May 19, 2025.

Born in Staunton, Virginia on July 1, 1953 to the late Louis Carmen and Margaret (Colantuono) Elia, Bob spent most of his life in the Staunton/Augusta County area.

He was a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in June of 1971 and after serving his country in the military, attended Fairmont State College in West Virginia.

He joined the Marine Corps in 1973, graduated from Paris Island boot camp, and served in communications at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, San Diego, CA, and Cherry Point, NC.

He retired in 2002 from the Virginia Department of Corrections, being employed most of his career at the former Staunton Correctional Center.

He was a member of Staunton Lodge No. 13, A.F. & A.M. for 42 years, being raised on August 18, 1982.

Bob loved basketball in his youth. His team was UNC Tar Heels. He also loved playing golf with his favorite nephew, Joey.

Like his father, he slapped paint on many walls in the area. Bob was known for being the one able to cook pasta resembling his beloved mother Maggie.

Bob is survived by his wife of almost 35 years, Teresa (Cox) "Terry" Elia; two brothers, Donald Joseph Elia and wife Becky, James Michael Elia; and sister, Linda (Elia) Campbell and husband Doug. He is also survived by several nieces, one nephew and numerous special friends.

A Masonic Service will be conducted at 6:00 pm, on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at McDow Funeral Home, 1701 W. Main Street, Waynesboro, VA with visitation immediately following until 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Cat's Cradle of the Shenandoah Valley, or Shriners Hospital for Children.