Robert Dean Halsey

Robert Dean (Bob) Halsey, 75, of Rocky Mount, Va., died on Thursday, August 20, 2009. Bob was born in Grayson County, Va., on December 6, 1933. He was a United States Army veteran of the Korean War. After service to his country, he moved to Rocky Mount with his wife, Margaret R. Halsey, in 1956. Bob was a member of Rocky Mount Baptist Church, the Rocky Mount Masonic Lodge #201, and the Kazim Temple of the Shrine. Bob was a successful beef cattle farmer and businessman. He was a sales representative for International Minerals and Chemical Company. His passion for the farming community and Franklin County led to many prosperous years traversing the region. Throughout his life Bob was an avid horseman who owned and trained Tennessee Walking Horses. He spent his summers showing horses for decades and enjoyed the sport immensely. Bob is survived by his wife of 53 years, Margaret Reedy Halsey; his daughter, Roberta Dean Halsey and his grandson, Halsey Rivers Hill. In addition, he is survived by a brother, Rex Halsey, of Mouth of Wilson; two sisters, Glenna Morton, of Mouth of Wilson, and Polly Hudson, of Galax; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Ennis Halsey; and his dear friend and brother, Neal Halsey. Dad's spirit, humor, and larger than life personality will be cherished always and greatly missed. Visitation will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2009, with funeral services to follow at 3 p.m. at Flora Funeral Chapel conducted by Dr. Jack Corvin. Graveside service will be held 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2009, at Youngs Chapel Cemetery, Mouth of Wilson, Va. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be sent to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org or Central and Western Virginia Chapter, 1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 306, Charlottesville, Va. 22901-1799. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service, South Main St., Rocky Mount, Va., 540-483-3835. www.florafuneralservice.com.