Robert " Bob" Bickley Varner Sr, 96, of Waynesboro, Virginia went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday May 7, 2025, at home, surrounded by his family.

He was born on November 30, 1928, in Monterey, Virginia, son of the late Luther and Eva Lena Varner.

Bob served in the United States Army for 24 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sargeant. His distinguished military career included service during the occupation of Japan, deployment to the Dominican Republic with the 82nd Airborne Division, deployment to Vietnam with the 173rd Airborne Brigade, as well as two tours in Germany. Following his military service, Bob retired after 20 years from the Department of the Interior U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, in Nevada.

Above all else, he was a devoted man of faith. He was a former longtime member of Wayne Hills Baptist Church and most recently a member of Sherlynd Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Hisae "Helen" Imai Varner, as well as 4 sisters and 9 brothers.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Juanita Varner of Waynesboro; his son, Robert B. Varner Jr and wife Christie of Payson, AZ; grandchildren; Jennifer (Tommy Jr), Joey (Katelynn), Kristina (Randy), Jamie (Cory), Jared (Katie), Jonathan, Jordan, and Kelsie; great grandchildren; Rachael, Tommy III (Alyssa), Hailey (John), Khloe, Parker, Brody, Zaya, Zarya, Dalton, Carson, Branson, Benaiah, and Josiah; great-great grandchildren; Eleanor and Tommy IV; and many beloved nieces and nephews; as well as his loyal companions Bella and Pootoo.

The family will receive friends from 12 P.M to 1:30 P.M on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at McDow Funeral Home, 1701 West Main Street, Waynesboro.

A private family graveside service will be held at Augusta Memorial Park, with Pastor Allen George officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bob's memory to the USO at USO.org. This organization provides support to service members and their families throughout their service to our country and was dear to his heart.

The family would like to thank Jaime Escanellas, M.D., Legacy Hospice, and his nurse Diane for their loving care, compassion, and support to Bob and his family.

Bob will be remembered for his unwavering faith in Christ, deep love and devotion to his family, and his selfless service to others.