Roanoke, VA — The community is mourning the loss of Raymond Kemett Totten, 84, of Roanoke, Virginia, who passed away early on Friday, November 28, 2025, while visiting his daughter’s family in Gloucester County for Thanksgiving. Surrounded by those he loved, Raymond went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ following an acute medical episode two days earlier.

Born on August 30, 1941, in Saltville, Virginia, Raymond was the son of the late K.O. “Pie” Totten and Mary Sue Sanders Totten. He graduated from Virginia Tech in 1963, served six years in the National Guard, and later built a respected 36-year career as a tax accountant supervisor with American Electric Power Company in Roanoke.

Raymond’s life was rooted in devotion—to his faith, his family, and his community. His love story with his wife, Sue, began in high school. She was the girl next door, and during a drive back to Radford University, he asked her on their first date. They married on the day he graduated from Virginia Tech, beginning a 62-year journey filled with unwavering partnership, shared adventures, and a home grounded in faith.

He was a lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America and an Eagle Scout who later received the Silver Beaver Award, honoring his years of service and mentorship to young people. His steady presence, warm leadership, and genuine care made him a man others naturally looked up to.

Raymond approached life with a sense of curiosity and gratitude. He enjoyed traveling, camping, hiking, cruising, and exploring the natural beauty of the world around him. Together, he and Sue accomplished their longtime dream of visiting all 50 states, with Alaska cruises and national park trips standing out among their favorite memories. Many of these adventures were shared with close friends Bob and Brenda Daniel, creating stories their families will cherish for years.

At home, Raymond found great joy in reading, writing, and documenting his family’s history. His daily Bible study reflected the deep faith that guided every part of his life. A proud Virginia Tech Hokie, he loved following the team and treasured the years he and Sue spent as season ticket holders after their retirement.

Above all, Raymond was the foundation of his family—a source of wisdom, encouragement, and calm reassurance. His children and grandchildren often turned to him for guidance, knowing his words were thoughtful and his heart steady. He and Sue were longtime members of Northview United Methodist Church in Roanoke, where they lived for 56 years.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Charles W. “Charlie Bill” Totten. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sue; his son, Kevin Totten, retired Salem City Fire Captain; his daughter, Karen Croxton; his son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Richard Croxton; and his beloved grandchildren—Warren, Glynnie, and Garrett Croxton of Gloucester. He is also lovingly remembered by extended family including Bobby, Sterling, Crew, and Hudson Yager of Raleigh, North Carolina.

Funeral services will be held at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road in Roanoke, on Friday, December 5, 2025. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at noon, officiated by Reverend Dr. Richard Croxton. Interment will take place the next day, Saturday, December 6, at 11:00 a.m., at Mount Rose Cemetery in Glade Spring, Virginia.

The family expresses deep gratitude to Hogg Funeral Home and Simpson Funeral Home for their exceptional care. Those wishing to honor Raymond’s memory may do so by contributing to Northview United Methodist Church, 521 Ridgecrest Drive, Hollins, VA 24019, or by planting a memorial tree in his name.

Raymond Totten leaves behind a legacy of faith, loyalty, and love—one that will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.


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