Robert Donaldson

It is with the deepest sorrow, we announce our beloved, Robert “Rob” Edward Donaldson, 39, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 in the hospital. For those who knew Rob, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives. Rob was affiliated with Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, Newport News Virginia and worked diligently on his landscaping design profession. He took pride in his work and ensured that his customers were always satisfied with the results.

Rob was a strong, proud man. He was a natural athlete. In his high school he was recognized for his numerous athletic achievements; such as Most Valuable Player for his Basketball team and nominated for the All-Star Team. He loved and watched all sports and passed this passion to his sons, Robert and Isaiah. His competitive nature made everyone around him want to be better players which made them a better team. His competitiveness was about good sportsmanship that he instilled in his children. His heavily supported and was involved in his sons’ various activities, especially their little league baseball and basketball teams.

He was a family man who had a deep respect and love for his wife, Dalimar, and his sons, Robert and Isaiah; grandmother Elfriede Shepherd and mother, Ruby Shepherd. He was a devoted son, husband, and father. His children were his pride and joy and his wife was the love of his life – love at first sight.

His love and sense of humor will be missed by all who were exposed to his pranks and his compassion. He is loved and will be missed by many!

Rob was preceded in death by his grandfather, retired Command Sergeant Major Edward L. Shepherd; his father, Robert P. Donaldson; grandmother, Elizabeth Donaldson; and his beautiful cousin, Gabrielle “Gabbi” Shepherd.

He is survived by his wife, Dalimar; sons, Robert and Isaiah; his mother Ruby Shepherd (Terry); grandmother Elfriede Shepherd; Uncle Edward “Eddie” Shepherd (Karen); cousins- Aleksis, Ashley, Jordan, and Ryan; sister Angel Donaldson; brother Dominique Donaldson; parents-in-law, Angel & Dalila Pla; brothers-in-law Angel & Francisco Pla; sister-in-law Lisa Craver; numerous other family members and friends especially, Mario Stellute and Michael Whitley.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 30th, 2019 at the Crater Road Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 3935 South Crater Road, Petersburg, Virginia 23805. The family will receive family members at the funeral home an hour prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m.