James Robert Bushong

James Robert Bushong, age 73, died at home Tuesday, November 6, 2018.

Jim was a graduate of Lord Botetourt High School, Class of 1964. He attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College and graduated with a teaching certificate in Architectural Drafting and Design. He enjoyed a variety of jobs including: Mr. Peanut, a radio DJ, a farmer, a painter, a butcher, a packaging designer, an engineering draftsman, and most notably a teacher, mentor, humanitarian, and friend.

Jim received numerous awards and acknowledgements over his 46 years as an educator in Botetourt: VA Skills USA, VICA Hall of Honor, Outstanding Trade and Education Teacher of the Year, VA Association for Trade and Industrial Education Teacher of the Year, VICA Advisor of the Year, VA Vocation Teacher of the Year, Richard Henegar, Jr. Acts of Kindness Community Award, and many other accolades for outstanding service from various educational and community organizations. He proudly served on several boards of directors as well as volunteer and church advisory committees. Jim enjoyed participating in community initiatives and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James W. and Cecilia C. Bushong, and son Kevin W.H. Bushong. Jim is survived by his wife Kay; sisters Beverly Getzen and Patricia (Alfred) Williams; daughters Kimberly (Sammy) Crawford and Kristal Bushong; step-children Michelle Staton, Sara (David) Campbell, and Jamie Staton; grandchildren: Kole Bushong, Kalen Bushong, Noah Campbell, Camden Staton, Gabe Staton, and Ryan Staton; great-granddaughter Blake Bushong.

The family extends their deepest appreciation to Dr. Morales, Chris Sink RN, the entire 10th floor of Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, and Sarah Quinlan of Good Samaritan Hospice.

A Celebration of Jim’s life will be 3:00pm Friday, November 9 at Rader Funeral Home, 630 Roanoke Road Daleville with Reverend Aubrey Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Daleville Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday, 4-7pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to Botetourt County Kiwanis Foundation for Scholarships and Food, 44 Kingston Dr., #218, Daleville, VA 24083-0218; or to Trinity Church of the Brethren, PO Box 128, Daleville, VA 24083.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.rader-funeralhome.com.

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