Robert Alphonso Royster's Obituary
Robert Alphonso Royster, 77, of Rapidan, died Sunday, April 15, 2024 at his home. He was born December 21, 1946, in Norfolk, VA to the late William and Evelyn Royster.
Robert graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk and then from VA State University in Petersburg, VA with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Later he earned his Master’s from the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. He was a member of Omega PSI PHI Fraternity and the Urban Teachers Corp in Washington, DC. Robert started his teaching career at Ballou Senior High School. He later became the director of the Science and Math School at Ballou and eventually the principal. He spent time at Hart Junior High School as the principal, before returning to Ballou Senior High School. Robert was a member of the Washington DC school board before his retirement in 1989.
Robert started RAR Enterprises in 1987, which later became RAR Midway LLC. In 1990 he and his wife, Mary, bought Midway Country Store and operated it until the Covid pandemic in 2020. He returned to work as the principal of Roosevelt Senior High School in Washington, DC in 1994. He was a member of the CCS Board and the Windmore Foundation.
Robert was a member of Culpeper Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He loved teaching, being a principal, and helping children learn and succeed.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Royster; three children, Rhodora Royster, Dr. Rochelle Royster-DeShields (Charles), and Robert Royster, Jr.; five grandchildren, Charles DeShields, Mary Ellen DeShields, DeDan DeShields, Reign Royster, and Roman Royster; five siblings, Grant Royster, Diane Hall, Michael Royster, James Faison, and Erwin Faison; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 26, 2024, at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Joseph Taber officiating.
Interment will be private.
An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at www.foundandsons.com
Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.
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