Robert James Bethel, Sr.

January 13, 2023
Robert James Bethel, Sr.

Robert James Bethel, Sr., 65, of Newport News, passed away on January 13, 2023.

Robert served his country in the Coast Guard where he retired as a Chief and received various awards. He went on to work as a Skilled Electrician for Newport News Shipbuilding. He attended ECPI’s College of Technology where he received his associates degree.

He had many hobbies that included horticulture, chess, and photography. He loved to listen to jazz music, reading a good book, and had a love for History and could often be found watching any historical documentary.

He is preceded in death by his father, Cecil R. Bethel; mother, Thalia M. Bethel; and sister, Cecilia Bethel. He is survived by his wife, JoyeLynne Bethel; sons Robert J. Bethel, Jr. and Devin J. Bethel and his wife; daughter, Tanasha M. Bethel; daughters-in-love Nicole Wright and Cheetara Arrington; sister, Georginna M. Bethel; and grandchildren, Kenneth N. Bethel, Kyrie J. Bethel, Kassidy J. Bethel, and Kennedy J. Flora.

The family will receive friends on Friday, January 27, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with a service to follow.




Funeral Service

Friday, January 27, 2023
1:00 PM

Bucktrout Funeral Home - Directions
4124 Ironbound Road
Williamsburg, VA 23188
757-229-3822

Visiting Hours

Bucktrout Funeral Home
  • Friday, January 27, 2023
  • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

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  • January 27, 2023
    Officer T.S. Newton NNSB 015 says:
    Mrs. Bethel and Family. I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one Mr. Bethel. God's love will be with you and your family during this difficult time and forever.....

  • January 24, 2023
    Sidney Andrews lit a candle:
    Lit since January 24, 2023 at 1:55:06 PM

  • January 24, 2023
    Sidney Andrews says:
    I send my deepest condolences to the Bethel family. I pray you find piece and comfort during this time. It was an honor and pleasure to work beside Mr. B over the last 4 years, he left a void that can never be replaced. He will truly be missed. SIP Mr. B

  • January 23, 2023
    Keith Foster says:
    To Bethel Family I send my condolences for the loss of your love one Mr. Bethel will be missed. I be praying for you and your family that God will give you comfort. God bless you and heaven smile upon you 🙏

  • January 22, 2023
    Jasmine Westbrooks Rogers says:
    I’ll forever remember Cousin Rob as cool and calm. A gentle giant. My favorite memory is him cooking on the grill and opening his home to all the family one summer when I was little. Cousin Rob, I’m going to miss seeing you by my cousin Joylynne’s side. You will be missed. We got her. ♥️

  • January 22, 2023
    Kim Smith says:
    Joelynn and family. I am so Sorry to hear about your loss. Sending our deepest condolences. Kim and Billy