Mr. Posey Lester Baliles, Jr., age 85 of Stuart, passed away Sunday, June 12, 2022, at Kings Grant Retirement Community in Martinsville with his loving family by his side. He was born in Washington, D.C. on February 20, 1937, to the late Posey Lester Baliles, Sr. and Era Hatcher Baliles. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Betty Wright Baliles; and one brother, Albert Lee Baliles.
Growing up in Woolwine, VA, Posey was inspired by his father, former Patrick County deputy and Sheriff, to pursue a career in law enforcement. This led Posey into a successful 36-year career with the Virginia State Police (VSP). After joining VSP in 1960 and working in Chesterfield County as a Trooper, Posey was called to honorably serve in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, for 2 years. Once he returned home, he was a Trooper in Henry County (1962-1976), and his beloved hometown, Patrick County (1976-1996). He retired as a Master Trooper, who was well known as someone who took his father’s advice to “treat people as you would want to be treated.” With his brilliant smile, kindness, patience, and friendly demeanor, he was the epitome of a servant to the citizens and the Lord.
Posey loved raising cattle, riding horses, working for his father-in-law at E.A. Wright’s sawmill, and most importantly, spending time with his family and friends. Both Posey and Betty were lifelong members of Buffalo Ridge Pentecostal Holiness Church and were devoted to serving their church and exemplified their faith and love of Christ and people, in all their interactions.
Surviving is a daughter and son-in-law, Ramona Baliles and Sam Arnold of Martinsville; two grandsons, Grayson Arnold, Nicholas Arnold of Radford; one sister, Mary Ellen Hill of Westfield, NC; many loving brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral services will be held Friday, June 17, 2022, at 1:00 P.M. at Buffalo Ridge Pentecostal Holiness Church with Rev. Kenneth Terry officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Military rites by the Patrick County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard. The Virginia State Police Honor Guard will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Buffalo Ridge Pentecostal Holiness Church c/o Naomi Pilson, 202 Bob Kat Lane, Stuart, VA 24171 or to Mountain Valley Hospice, 730 E. Church St., #13, Martinsville, VA 24112. Online condolences may be sent to www.moodyfuneralservices.com.
