Callie Nelson Robinette

Callie Nelson Robinette, 92, of Lexington VA, formerly of Roanoke VA, passed away May 18 at her home in the Kendal Retirement Community. She was the daughter of the late Luther and Edith Nelson of Roanoke and the sister of Treva Hutcherson and Marvin Nelson, both deceased. After raising her four children, Callie attended Roanoke Memorial Hospital's School of Practical Nursing, graduating in 1972. After graduation, she worked as a nurse at the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Salem, Catawba Hospital and several geriatric facilities. She concluded her nursing career by providing private duty eldercare.

Callie's unwavering faith was an integral part of her life. Although she was usually reserved, she possessed a strong faith and deeply-held convictions. She enjoyed reading, puzzles and flowers and was a lifelong "cat person." Her favorite color was yellow and she preferred wearing bright colors instead of somber hues. Music was very important in Callie's life. She learned to play piano in childhood and continued playing throughout her life, performing at church functions and family events. During her years at Kendal, she played frequently and seldom missed a live music performance by local musicians. She enjoyed Kendal's bingo games and group outings, especially those with an ice cream component. She cherished visits from family members and friends. As Callie's health declined, she continued to maintain a positive outlook characterized by quiet but fierce perseverance and a ready smile. While illness eventually ended her mortal life, Callie's smile will endure in the lives of all who knew her.    

Callie is survived by three children, Ben Wood of Lexington, Rena Austin, North Myrtle Beach SC, wife of Jerry Austin, Ann Pearre, DeLand FL, wife of Bob Pearre, and daughter-in-law Sandra Harris, West Lafayette IN, wife of deceased son Rod Wood, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. She loved and was extremely proud of all members of her family and never missed an opportunity to talk positively about them.


The family is requesting that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Staff Appreciation Fund, Kendal Retirement Community, 160 Kendal Dr., Lexington VA 24450.

A public graveside memorial service will be held Saturday, May 25 at 11am at Fair View Cemetery in Roanoke, with Rev. Mike Palmer officiating. Online condolences may be made at www.lotzfuneralhomevinton.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Callie Nelson Robinette, please visit our floral store.