Abingdon, VA - Robert F. Spriggs, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, in the Johnson City Medical Center. He was born on September 2, 1933, in Damascus VA. He attended the Rock School and upon graduation joined the Army and served in the Korean War and later served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War, earning various medals for meritorious service including the Silver Star and the Bronze Star. He was a Paratrooper and earned Master Jumper Wings after completing over 306 jumps. He retired in 1971 and moved with his wife and five children to Abingdon VA.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Elizabeth (Hurley) Spriggs and his youngest daughter, Sandra Dawn (Babe) Spriggs. He is survived by his oldest son, Robert F. Spriggs, Jr. of Abingdon, VA, Curtis D. Spriggs and his wife Jane of Bristol, VA., Linda Shaddon and her husband John of Medford, OR, and Lisa Amburn and her husband Ray of Morristown, TN. In addition, he is survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He was an avid Braves Fan and loved baseball his whole life. He used to skip lunch in school to play baseball with his friends. He also loved fishing and hunting and spent a lot of time outdoors. He enjoyed sporty cars and pickup trucks and drinking Twisted Tea and bottled Coke. He had a lot of good times in life, but also had his share of the storms of life -- cancers, heart issues a few other health issues that are common to people of advanced age. He also liked to tell stories of people he knew in the Army and his childhood in Damascus.
Visitation will be held 2-3 p.m. Saturday, July 16, 2022, in the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA. A brief graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m. in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Pastor David Robins officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by Highlands Veterans Honor Guard and the Virginia Army National Guard.
Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register. The family of Robert F. Spriggs is being cared for by Farris Cremation & Funeral Center, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210, 276-623-2700.