Robert "Bob" Haughton Benedict

Lt Col. Robert Haughton Benedict, age 77, of Pooler, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 from complication of Parkinson’s disease, under the care of Hospice Savannah.

Bob was born on Saturday, July 20th, 1946 in a small doctor’s hospital located in St. Louis, Mississippi, 3rd son to Philip and Ruth Benedict.

Robert was a beloved husband to Tamra, brother to Phil, Weldon and Betty, and friend to everyone who met him.

He was a dedicated Ohio State fan having graduated in December 1968 with a Bachelor’s degree College of Education with a focus on his passion of “Comprehensive Social Studies”. Bob also had a teaching certificate. He later pursued his Master’s degree at University of Texas @ Arlington.

Robert proudly and honorably served 23 years in the United Stated Air Force. He Serve in the 366 th Tactical Fighter Wing, stationed at Da Nang Air Base, Republic of South Vietnam. Robert completed his service to his country 23 years later at Charleston AFB, retiring March 31, 1994.

In 1981, after working 5 years at McDonnell Douglas, he moved to Savannah and works as a Logistics Engineer at Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation. He also took over writing and editing duties on the quarterly “Operational Summary” Gulfstream newsletter. It was mailed out to owners / operators of Gulfstream I, II, and III aircraft. This publication covered many subjects, including flight and maintenance crew procedure changes, in-service reliability and maintainability reviews, weather-related maintenance procedure changes, etc.

Robert was actively involved in various organizations such as Military Officers of America, Civil Air Patrol and Savannah Tech Paramedic’s Program. He and Tamra loved sunsets, took numerous cruises with family and friends, traveled often to explore the wonders of America, picnics and had a passion for sitting outside enjoying nature.

In May 1991, Robert had a blind date with Tamra Haymans, a nurse known by a friend. Their first date was over the telephone, and took place while Robert was cooking in the kitchen. Their interests were mutual and friendship grew quickly, wedding as the first day of spring, March 21 st , 1992, at White Bluff Presbyterian Church.

Robert was a Christian Man and had a passion for cooking, riding bicycles, golf, cruising, wood carving, model cars and airplanes, He loved classic car shows and all things that were Volkswagen. He and Tamra restored 2 during their 32 years of marriage. His favorite “temptations” were Hersey chocolate bars, Oreo cookies, and on special occasions, Baileys Cream liquor.

Robert was preceded in death by his father Philip Charles Benedict and mother Mary Ruth Benedict.

He is survived by his loving wife Tamra "TJ" Haymans Benedict, his god children Ashley Ann Rowley, Sam Arthur Rowley, and Jacob Duane Rowley, his sister Betty Schreiner (Vernon), and his brothers Weldon (Leanne) Benedict and Phillip Benedict (Joanne), as well as numerous nephews and nieces. Together, Robert and Tamra have a therapy dog, Cinnamon and acknowledge Jackie Tatum, Critters Doggy Day Care for assisting in training her.

The family wants to acknowledge the excellent care Bob received from Hospice Savannah with Dr. Benton and her incredible team; Dr. Steven Corse and Staff; Dr. Jill Trumble and staff. The family also expresses gratitude to Buckingham South At Home organization, and Richardean Mayes (Peaches), their incredible healthcare provider and friend. They also wish to thank The US Department of Veterans Affairs and Nightingale Home, particularly Destiny Mixon, healthcare aide.

Finally, the family wishes to thank Jean Humphreys, RN for her love, expert care and support of Robert and Tamra throughout the last stages of Robert’s Parkinson’s.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospice Savannah, The Michael J Fox Parkinson's program, or Diabetes research are appreciated. These organizations provided countless resources toward Roberts’ courageous battle with Parkinsons.

Robert will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Robert will be remembered at a Celebration of Life Service at Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel on April 4, 2023 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

Our Honorary Pall bearers are: Robert Boatright, Jerry Westfall, John Bradley, Col. Gary Rowley, Jack White, Jack Howell.

Please sign our online guestbook at www.bakermccullough.com

Services have been entrusted to Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel, 2794 West US Highway 80 Garden City, GA 31408. (912) 964-2862. www.bakermccullough.com