Robert Franklin “Bob” Busic, formerly of Hayes, went peacefully to his home in heaven on October 23, 2026. He was born on October 15, 1938 and grew up in Sparta, North Carolina. A talented engineer, devoted Christian, gifted musician, and beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Bob lived a life marked by faith, patience, hard work, and a genuine love for others.
Bob graduated from Alleghany High School in 1956, where he was voted “Most Popular” in his class. He went on to graduate from North Carolina State University in 1961 and began an engineering career that connected him to some of the nation’s most significant aerospace and shipbuilding projects. Early in his career, he worked at the Naval Ordnance Base in Indian Head, Maryland, before joining McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, Missouri, where he contributed to work associated with the Apollo Space Program. He later spent 35 years at Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia, helping to design submarines and aircraft carriers. Among his notable assignments was working with a team of engineers on the USS Seawolf SSN-21. His career reflected his technical ability, dedication, and pride in his work.
While Bob’s professional accomplishments were considerable, his faith and service to others were at the heart of his life. He was an active church member who served as a deacon for many years, taught Sunday School, and sang in the choir. He faithfully visited the sick and homebound and participated in prison ministry, sharing encouragement and compassion with those he encountered. His faith was not simply something he professed; it was something he sought to live out every day.
Music was another great love of Bob’s life. An accomplished guitarist, he wrote and recorded songs and performed with the Blue River Band, a popular bluegrass group in eastern Virginia. The band entertained audiences at festivals and churches, sharing the music Bob loved with communities throughout the region. Through his music, as through his faith, he brought people together and created lasting memories.
Bob believed in the importance of kindness and loved the message of the song “Try a Little Kindness.” He understood that small acts of compassion could make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Patient by nature and generous in spirit, he was loved by many and will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for the way he treated people.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Lois Busic; his sister, Betty Lou Crum, and his granddaughter, Aimee Marie Busic.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Bonnie Hope Busic, the love of his life. Their long marriage was a cherished partnership, and they looked forward to the promise of eternity together. He is also survived by his children, Suzanne Manners and her husband Jeff; Sandra Joy; John Busic and his wife Mitzi, and Robert Busic and his wife Bethany; his sister, Barbara Sue Lucier; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of faith, music, kindness, and love. His life touched people through his work, his ministry, his songs, and the quiet, patient way he cared for others. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the faith he cherished and the hope of a joyful reunion in eternity.
Bob’s life was a testament to the value of hard work, steadfast faith, family devotion, and a generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the people he served, the music he shared, and the many lives he touched. May we honor his memory by following his example and remembering always to try a little kindness.
The family received friends Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Hogg Funeral Home. A graveside service is scheduled for Friday, October 30, at 2 p.m. at Piney Creek Methodist Church Cemetery. 296 Pugh Road, Piney Creek, N.C. 28663. In memory of our loved one, contributions may be made to Petsworth Baptist Church in support of Operation Christmas Child, 2471 Hickory Fork Road, Gloucester, Va. 23061.
Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home.