Robert Anthony Young, Sr. began his journey of life on January 17, 1948, in Asheville NC, son to Robert
Louis Young and Hazel Young. He graduated from Lee Edwards High School (Go, Fighting Cougars!), and
married his high school sweetheart Faye Swearingen in 1967. His greatest passion in life was his family,
with sons Robert Jr. (1968), Scott (1972), and Baxter (1982); in 2013 Robert’s heart was completed with
the arrival of his granddaughter Lydia, Papa’s pride and joy.
Depending on how you knew him, he was Robert, or Tony, or Bob. Or Dad. Or Pop. Or Papa. Faye may
have had a special nickname for him, but that’s between them. His adventures brought his family to
Jacksonville in 1970, where they would make their home. Robert lived a life of service to his family and
community. He was a volunteer firefighter for many years, an active member of various churches, and a
fan of all of Jacksonville’s various sports franchise, though he was a Carolina Tarheel through and
through.
He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and eager traveler. Where road trips were the family
vacation years ago, cruises became his retirement indulgence, where he and Faye could share the
journeys and comforts in their lifelong love.
Though illness eventually slowed him down, it never stopped his spirit of adventure. On April 6, with his
love beside him and his heart full, Robert began the greatest adventure.
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