Robert E. Finnell – Metropolitan Funeral

Robert Earl Finnell, affectionately known as “Rob”, was born on January 30, 1942 in Norfolk, VA to the late Elijah and Clara Finnell.  He began his education in the Norfolk Public School system and completed his higher education at Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University.

At the tender age of 16, Rob realized the value of hard work, and started his first job at the Norfolk Naval Air Base.  He eventually found his love for working with his hands as a custom master framer at the Art Frame Shop.  Rob was a true visionary, often building and restoring projects both inside and outside of the home.  Ultimately, he enjoyed a 20+ year career at the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority before retiring in 2004.

Rob loved to play card games such as poker, tunk, and spades, and often hosted his family and friends for weekend tournaments.  He was a chess master and shared his love for the game by teaching many of his children and grandchildren.  He was also a passionate Washington Redskins fan.

Rob met the love of his life, Catherine W. Finnell in 1970 and they wed in 1977.  This union lasted the test of time for 50 years.  Rob attended Second Calvary Baptist Church for many years before his health failed. He was full of love, wisdom and compassion.  But the greatest demonstration of his faith was his generosity.  While it was often accompanied by a stern life lesson, he had a heart of gold and shared his time, gifts, and treasures with anyone who needed his help.

Rob was called to eternal rest on Thursday, November 26, 2020.  He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving and devoted wife Catherine W. Finnell; 4 sons, Brian Spellman, Keith Wright, Bryan Wright (Darcelle), Rodney Wright of Norfolk, VA; 5 daughters, Ronda Hamilton (Terry) of Kernersville, NC, Raedene Baskerville (Foster) and Regina Peele (Darryl) of Norfolk, VA, Anitreous Hodges (Marvin) of Virginia Beach, VA, and Robin Finnell of Chesapeake, VA; two sisters, Eunice Lindsay of Essex, MD and Margaret Turner of Chicopee, MA; one brother Melvin Finnell of Springfield, MA; one aunt, Elizabeth Eley of Virginia Beach, VA, 25 grandchildren, 60 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Willie Lee Finnell of Ahoskie, NC, Johnnie Finnell of Norfolk, VA and James Finnell of Chesapeake, VA; two sisters Vivian English Cooper of Norfolk, VA and Bettie Williams of Brooklyn, NY; one aunt, Addie “Shug” Burke, and one grandson Corey Lamb of NC.

As the patriarch of the Finnell Family, Rob will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.