It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Roberto "Robert" Javier Mayorga on 3/16/2023. Robert was born on 6/20/1967 and is survived by his loving spouse, Susan; stepchildren Avalon and Jesse McMullen; sons Anthony and Christopher Rilling; mother Carmen Gonzales Posada; siblings Carmen Strickling (spouse William Strickling and son Benjamin), Carlos Mayorga (spouse Nancy Mayorga and daughter Susannah), and Martin Mayorga (spouse Clari Mayorga and children Nicholas, Brianna, and Sofia); cherished pet cats Lil Bit and Taser; and his uncle and godfather Alvaro Mayorga-Cortes (spouse Rosa Maria Mayorga and cousins Alejandra and Rosa Maria Mayorga) as well as other extended family.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Christiansburg Presbyterian Church or Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Virginia.
Throughout his 3-decade battle with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Robert’s unwavering courage and appreciation for life inspired us all. He faced his challenges head-on, never complaining, and continued to savor every moment.
In his earlier years Robert was an active leader at St. Johns College High School (Washington, DC), graduating with the rank of Cadet Lieutenant Colonel. He was also a Platoon Leader for the Ranger Unit, in which he took much pride. Robert was highly respected there and considered to bring a distinct level of notoriety by setting high standards and considered to be a great leader. Robert earned a Bachelor of Science degree Cum Laude from Dickinson College, and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from Georgetown University. He had a distinguished career in corporate finance at Computer Science Corporation and Lockheed Martin, followed by 11 years as the Finance Director of The Graduate School at Virginia Tech.
A devoted member of Christiansburg Presbyterian Church, Robert was an avid reader, especially of books authored by US Presidents. He actively participated in Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Virginia activities, including retreats and conferences. Robert served on the Board for his Homeowners’ Association and was on the Board of Directors for CASA of the New River Valley.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Jill Cramer of Blue Ridge Associates of Neurology, Dr. Ralph Brown of Carilion Clinic’s Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Good Samaritan Hospice, and neighbors of Windsong Heights with a special thank you to Uncle Alvaro Mayorga-Cortes for their unwavering support during Robert's journey.
Robert's resilient spirit and love for life will forever be remembered by those who knew him.
A Celebration of Life and Scattering of Ashes will be on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 11am at Christiansburg Presbyterian Church.