LCDR Robert S. Cutler, 97, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, in Savannah, Georgia. A devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and patriot, he lived a life marked by service to his country and unwavering dedication to his family and fellow veterans.
Born on April 14, 1928, in Braintree, Massachusetts, Robert was the beloved son of Charles Cutler and Dorothy Knapp Cutler. At just 17 years old, he answered the call to serve his nation by enlisting in the United States Coast Guard in 1945. His early service took him to the Pacific theater during World War II-a formative experience that would shape a distinguished military career spanning nearly three decades.
Robert rose through the ranks from enlisted man to officer over the course of his 27- year tenure with the Coast Guard. His final assignment was as Commander of Coast Guard Group-Savannah, where he also held the title of Captain of the Port. Even after retiring from active duty, his commitment to lifesaving and public service endured. For an additional 29 years, he remained active in the Coast Guard Auxiliary, continuing to support maritime safety and community outreach. Following retirement from the Coast Guard, he worked briefly for Hohenstein Shipping and Smith & Kelly Co before joining the US Lines, Inc as Terminal Manager for several years, then as Assistant Marine Superintendent until retiring in 1990.
Beyond his formal duties, Robert was deeply involved in numerous veteran organizations. He worked tirelessly to advocate for the security and welfare of those who had served-efforts that reflected both his sense of duty and compassion for others.
Robert shared 54 cherished years of marriage with his late wife Dorothy Cutler. Together they built a loving family that continues to honor their legacy. He is survived by his daughter, Carol Sheen; son, Harold Cutler and daughter-in-law Ulla; grandchildren Eric Cutler (Julia), Ryan Purcell, Cory Purcell, Lauren Purcell, and Caitlin Cain; great-granddaughters Kyla Cutler and Addyson Horton; sister-in-law Diane Robbins; as well as several nieces and nephews who held him dear.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Dorothy; son Charles Cutler; siblings Trudy Kelley, Kenneth Cutler (Maryann), Donald Cutler (Rosemary), and Lawrence Cutler.
LCDR Robert S. Cutler's life was one of steadfast service-to country, community, and family. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who value honor and dedication.
A visitation will be held on Apirl 25, 2025 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Baker McCullough Funeral Home located at 7415 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah, GA 31406. A funeral service will follow on April 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., in the chapel of Baker McCullough Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will take place at Hillcrest Abbey West Cemetery at 1336 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA 31405 at 12:30 pm.