Rev. Robert Lawrence Spratley

On April 25, 2022, God called Rev. Dr. Robert I. Spratley into eternal rest affectionately known by the family as "Wheat' He was born to the late Rosa Moore and Joseph Spratley in Smithfield, VA on April 29, 1941. Robert was raised by Nanny Spratley and Grace Love. He was educated in the Hampton School System.

Robert accepted Christ at an early age and rededicated his life to Christ in 1980. He became a faithful member of Morning Star Baptist Church, Hampton, Virginia, where he served as an usher, Sunday School Superintendent and member of the W. R. Jones Male Chorus. On September 27, 1981, he was ordained a Deacon until he received his call into the Ministry. In 1993, Robert was licensed to be a minister at Morning Star Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Wilbur R. Jones, and he was ordained October 12, 1997. His love for Christ made him a great encourager and mentor.

Robert received his Bachelor's of Theology in 1997 and an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity in 1998 from the United Christian Institute. He was a member of the Hampton Roads Minister Association and Vicinity in 2006. Robert retired from the Hampton High School system as a painter in 2006. Upon retiring, he continued to serve God by preaching and teaching the gospel at many churches sharing the good news and his love for Christ. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his 14 brothers and 8 sisters. Rev. Dr. Robert Spratley leaves to cherish his memories: his loving and faithful wife, Kathleen of 54 years; one loving daughter, Kathy; two sisters; one brother; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

As we look back on his life, Robert was faithful to God, his family and Morning Star Baptist Church. He was one who did not mind witnessing to others about God's love.

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