Robert "Bob" John Devlin

Robert “Bob” J. Devlin, of Edinburg, VA died on Monday, December 7, 2020 at his home in Edinburg. He was born on October 7,1942 in Philadelphia, PA, the son of the late, Winifred B. Devlin and Robert E. Devlin. He was a graduate of Father Judge High School in Philadelphia and then The Catholic University of America, graduating in 1964 with a Bachelor’s degree in History. Serving as an officer in the US Navy for 4 years following graduation was an experience he treasured & often spoke fondly of. He then earned a master’s degree at Catholic University upon completion of his military service. He began his federal government career as a historian with the Navy Department moving on to The National Archives and HUD as an archivist. Bob retired early and then enjoyed multiple “retirement” jobs such as in the records department at Fairfax County School System, studying Hospitality Management at NOVA, bellman at the Hyatt Reston and as a sales representative selling coin machines. He ended his working career teaching history at Massanutten Military Academy in Woodstock, VA. Bob was successful in all these positions due to being a loyal and friendly people person. He enjoyed every job he had! Bob was an active member of his church, St. John Bosco, in Woodstock, VA as well as a Past Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus, Council 9002 and a faithful volunteer in the Family Promise program. His love of history and the Navy led to a love for ships and the sea. Being an avid reader, he was a strong advocate for education and liked visiting colleges. Dev married his best friend and soulmate, Maureen Mercik, on August 7, 2020 in New Market, Va. Everyone loved seeing the happiness they brought to each other. He loved exploring and traveling with his wife, friends and daughters. An annual birthday adventure trip planned by his daughters was always enjoyed! With his wife he especially enjoyed beach trips, taking walks and sitting on their front porch and back patio as well as attending local events, plays, concerts, restaurants and trips to the Shenandoah National Park. Surviving with his wife are his two daughters Alexandra Devlin and Catherine Bogaty (Justin) along with three granddaughters: Gabriella, Sofia and Nina. Maureen’s daughters had become quite fond of Dev. He leaves happy memories to Laurel Dixon (David), Brenna Menefee (Joey), Lainey Eisen (Jason Taylor) and two grandsons Levi and Remington Menefee. Bob also leaves a brother Thomas Devlin (Clare) and a sister Margaret Wilby (Mark). He will surely live in the hearts of many relatives and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his brother John and his sister MaryAnn and he predeceased the mother of their children, Caroline Boden Devlin of Winchester. The family expresses deep appreciation to the Woodstock Rescue Squad and Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Department for all their help and valiant efforts. A funeral service will be conducted in January at St. John Bosco Catholic Church with Fr. Augustine Tran officiating. Interment will be in Cedarwood Cemetery, Edinburg following the mass. More information will be forthcoming. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to K of C Council 9002, PO Box 244, Woodstock, Va.22664 or Woodstock Rescue Squad, PO Box 221, Woodstock, VA 22664. Online Condolences can be left at www.valleyfs.com Arrangements by Heishman Funeral Home Inc., Valley Funeral Service Branch, Edinburg.

Robert "Bob" John Devlin

October 7, 1942 - December 7, 2020