Francis Brodnax Robertson

Francis Brodnax Robertson, III, a lifelong resident of Halifax, died peacefully on April 22, 2017 at the Sentara Woodview Nursing Home.  Born June 23, 1932, he was the son of the late Francis Brodnax Robertson, Jr. and Mary Coles Hankins Robertson of Halifax, VA.  He is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Robertson Wetmore and her husband Kevin of Ashburn, VA and a son, Francis Brodnax “Rob” Robertson, IV of Salem, VA.  In addition to his children, he is survived by two grandsons, Cadet Kevin Coles Wetmore, US Coast Guard Academy, and William Patrick Wetmore of Ashburn, VA, and two granddaughters, Kelly Robertson Page, of Autryville, NC and Emma Catherine Wetmore, also of Ashburn. Brodnax graduated from Halifax High School in 1950 and attended Hampden Sydney College from 1950-1952.  He enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Republic of Korea until his honorable discharge in 1954.  He then attended Georgetown University where he was an active member of the fraternity Delta Phi Epsilon and the Georgetown Debate Team.  He graduated in 1959 with a B.S. Degree in Foreign Service. Brodnax returned to Halifax County in 1964 and taught at several elementary schools before becoming principal at both Meadville and Wilson Memorial Elementary schools.  He also was the Supervisor for the evening education classes and a U.S. History and Government teacher at Halifax County Senior High until his retirement.  He was most proud of his children and grandchildren. He cherished the lifelong friendships and never knew a stranger.  His enthusiasm for local politics in the 1980’s and 1990’s landed him the opportunity to represent Halifax as a delegate at the National Democratic Convention in Atlanta, GA.  He was also very involved with local groups and residents in the design, fundraising, and construction of the Halifax War Memorial.  From time to time, Brodnax could be found performing on the local stage with the Little Theater group. He was a lifelong member of St. John’s Episcopal Church where he served as an acolyte in his youth and a Layreader and Eucharistic Minister to a sister Episcopal Church in the county. He loved to sing and could often be heard belting out hymns at church or in the halls of the Sentara Woodview.  A church and graveside service will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Halifax, VA on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 1:00 P.M. with Military Rites. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the St. John’s Episcopal Church Organ Fund, P.O. Box 905, Halifax, VA 24558or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com Arrangements are being made by Powell Funeral Home.