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Lt. Col. Robert J. Driver Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, Oct.15, after a long, grueling war with cancer.

He was born in Staunton on Oct. 28, 1933, to Emily Swope Driver and Robert Jett Driver.

He is survived by the love of his life, Edna Mae Guyer Driver; his brother, William H Driver and wife Bev; his son, Robert Jett Driver III; his daughter, Diana Driver Massey and husband Keith; three grandchildren, Derek Ryan, Alexa Rene’ and Sarah Michelle, as well as numerous cousins, nephews and extended family and friends.

He was a dedicated and loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, Marine and friend. 

He had a great love of history and dedicated a lifetime to learning, research and writing about the Civil War. He has authored 16 books, including his biography of his time spent in the Marine Corps before, during and after the Vietnam War, called “More Than a Few Good Men”. He served two tours in Vietnam with his military brothers AKA ‘The Walking Dead’. He received many military awards and honors, including the Bronze Star with Valor, the Legion of Merit and the National Defense Service Medal, along with several Vietnam Medals with Valor.

He will be laid to rest with military honors on Friday, Oct. 20, at 11:30 a.m., at New Providence Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Raphine. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots, an organization that he held close to his heart.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, Oct. 20, at 11:30 a.m., at New Providence Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 1208 New Providence Road, Raphine. 

Puckett Funeral Home is serving the family. www.puckettfh.com.