Robert Franklin (Rip) Gordon, age 66, of 213 Alleghany Street, Clifton Forge, Virginia, died Friday February 4, 2011 at Friendship Health and Rehabilitation Center in Roanoke.

He was born September 22, 1944 in Richmond, Virginia.

He attended the CAYA Ministries in Clifton Forge, and was a self-employed handyman, working many odd jobs around Clifton Forge.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, a sister, and a niece.

He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Crawford Gordon; a daughter, Debrah Henley of Waynesboro; a stepdaughter, Angel Crawford of New York; a step-son, Shalako Crawford of Clifton Forge; two grandchildren; a step-grandchild Denzel Crawford of New York; a special niece, Gina White of Charlottesville; a number of other nieces and nephews; and his special friends, Heather and Tommy Caldwell.

In keeping with his wishes his body has been cremated.

A memorial service was held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday from the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge with the Reverend Matthew T. Barnette officiating, assisted by Reverend Alfred Dearing and Reverend Roslyn Thomas.

The Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, Virginia, handled the arrangements.