Robert E. Hobbs

Robert Ellice Hobbs passed away suddenly on February 6, 2002 at William Backus Hospital in Norwich, Connecticut. Born in Petersburg, Virginia, he was the youngest of seven children of the late Pleasant Hobbs and Mary Elizabeth Bolling. Robert was a career serviceman who honorably served in the U.S. Navy as a Quartermaster for 20 years. A veteran of the Korean War and Vietnam War, he was one of the few African-American men who navigated destroyers at the time. Throughout his naval career he was often commended for his charting accuracy, assumption of duties expected of higher ranked officers, and professionalism. He retired to this community 30 years ago with his family. He worked as a police officer at the Newport Naval Base and then as a security guard for the NETC for many years.

Dad or Papa Persh as he was affectionately called by his children, fathered five children by Dorothy Mae Evans Hobbs between 1955 and 1972 and was a stepfather to his current wifes son. There was nothing Dad would not attempt to repair or paint. He loved to travel, listening to music, watching comedies, nature programs and boxing matches(he was a great fan of Muhammad Ali). He was known for his wry sense of humor. Although he was a very private man, you were guaranteed a memorable time when he did entertain.

Robert Hobbs is survived by his wife, June Hobbs; former wife Dorothy Mae Evans Hobbs: sons Robert E. Hobbs, Jr., Daniel E. Hobbs ( Fiona) and Eric G. Hobbs ( Kathy); daughters Veronica L. Hobbs and Yvonne D. Hobbs; sister Emily Lloyd; stepson Fred Abong and a host of other relatives.