Robert Lee Towler was born on November 18, 1941, in Petersburg, Virginia, to the late Matthew Towler and Fannie Lucy (Jones) Towler. He was baptized at Oak Street Baptist Church and later graduated from Peabody High School.

After graduation, Robert Lee worked in a variety of roles, including Ridge Maintenance Co. in Cleveland, Ohio, Solar Optical in Colonial Heights, Virginia and as a butcher at Lou Winer's Supermarket in Petersburg, Virginia. He ultimately began a longstanding and dedicated career at Central State Hospital in the Dietary Department. Known for his hard work, reliability, and compassion, he cared for countless patients during his more than 30 years of service to the State of Virginia. After retiring, he relocated to Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, where he became a devoted member of Saint Augusta Missionary Baptist Church.

Robert Lee was beloved everywhere he lived and by everyone who knew him. Affectionately called "Greasy," "Loppy," or simply "Robert Lee," he carried a joyful spirit and an easy smile. He had a special love for children and for the Christmas season—often dressing as Santa Claus to spread happiness and cheer. He also had a lifelong love for Cadillacs and old Westerns, especially Cowboy movies.

On November 18, 2025, God gently called Robert Lee home, choosing the same day he entered this world for his peaceful ride into the sunset.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his daughter, Cheryl Wiggins of Dekalb, Illinois; grandsons, Rodney Wiggins, Tavaris Wiggins, Antwan Wiggins and Quinton Emory  all of Chicago, Illinois; and his granddaughters, Bianca Wiggins, Briana Wiggins, and Brittany Wiggins all of Dekalb, Illinois.

He is also survived by his siblings: Tina Miller of Long Branch, New Jersey, Margaret Towler Uzzle, Joseph A. Towler (Synobia) and Josephine Towler all of Petersburg, Virginia.

Robert Lee's legacy continues through his nieces and nephews: Rosala Lee Hicks, Christopher Miller, Jimmie A. Uzzle (Melvennia), Ronette Brodie, Yolanda Venable, Lorenzo A. Towler, Alefunzo Uzzle (Tamika), Christopher Miller, Jr., Brian K. Uzzle, Lavert Towler, Teresa Towler, and Mekhi Parham. He also leaves behind fifteen grandchildren, three great  grandchildren, and a host of loving relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Monday, November 24, 2025, in the Chapel of J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Rev. Dr. Rebecca Branch-Griffin, eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.