Victor Keith Rakes

Mr. Victor Keith Rakes, age 67 of Critz, Virginia passed away at his home on Friday, April 28, 2023.  He was born in Martinsville on September 25, 1955, to the late Walter Raleigh Rakes, Sr., and Rachel Martin Rakes.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Walter Raleigh Rakes, Jr.

Victor was a 1973 graduate of Martinsville High School.  He went on to Patrick & Henry Community College where he received an associate degree in business administration.  He started his career at Stereo Village in Martinsville, then worked at H & R Block, and then worked as a programmer/supervisor for Kreager Woodworking, where he remained for over 40 years.  To know him was to know how much he loved music and every kind of music genre.  He was an avid musician, enjoyed attending bluegrass music festivals (where he video/audio recorded many festivals); and mentored many young musicians through guitar lessons and encouraging words.  He was a world traveler, who enjoyed the beach, the mountains, beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and a challenging game of golf.  He loved his friends, animals, and his home in the woods, where he made a two-hole golf course and played daily.  Victor had such an outgoing personality; he never met a stranger and everyone he met couldn’t help but love him.  He will be missed by the vast multitude of friends he acquired over his lifetime.

A celebration of life gathering will be held at the Reynolds Homestead on Saturday, October 7, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Galax J.A.M. (Junior Appalachian Musicians), Chestnut Creek School of the Arts, c/o J.A.M., 100 North Main Street, Galax, VA 24333., (Please note J.A.M. in the memo line). Moody Funeral Home in Stuart has been entrusted with the arrangements and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.