On Lexington

City Council

LERA

Bob Lera, 79, of Lexington, died Wednesday, July 31, at the University of Virginia Medical Center.

Lera was actively involved in the Lexington community during the 27 years he and his wife Kay lived here. He served on Lexington City Council from 2009 to 2013 and was previously a member of the city’s Planning Commission and Board of Equalization.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and the Sunrise Rotary Club. He volunteered for Rockbridge Area Habitat for Humanity, Rockbridge Area Hospice, Balloons over Rockbridge and Lime Kiln Theater. He served as an officer for the Rockbridge Historical Society.

Lera loved music and participated in the Wednesday morning music sessions in Lexington. He was also an avid gardener and proud of the gardens he planted at his Lexington home every year.

Bob and Kay Lera operated a bed and breakfast inn, the White House, on Jackson Avenue for 10 years. He worked 28 years for Pacific Bell and five years for the California State University System.

In looking for a location for retirement, Bob Lera discovered Lexington, and he and Kay made Lexington their home in July of 1997. He loved the community and enjoyed being involved in many activities and organizations, his wife said.

He is survived by his wife, Kay, his two sons, Marc and Rob; and his sister, Patty.

There are plans to hold a joyful celebration of life to reflect the way he chose to live his life. The date and location are to be determined.