Robert Whittington “Bob” Welker (also known as Sonny to his friends in Alabama), born in Selma, Alabama, on December 3, 1936 to parents, Edythe Anderson Welker and Eckbert Hoffman, and Robert Hane Welker—died peacefully in his home surrounded by family on August 12, 2026. He is reunited in Heaven with Helen Sue “Susie” Johnson Welker, his beloved wife of 65 years; and survived by his children, Suzanne Moughon (William), Rob Welker, (Cara), Jenifer Williams (Scott), and his grandchildren, Zoe Welker, Clay Moughon, Sarah Stacey (Preston), Jordan Welker and Lindsay Williams, who knew him as “Grandaddy.” He is also survived by one sister, Foy Hoffman Winsor.
Bob graduated from Marion Military Institute in 1957 and Samford University (formerly Howard College) in 1961 and married his beloved Susie that same year. As a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army, he traveled the world with his family, finding homes in Brazil, Germany, and much of the United States. He was a decorated military officer, earning several bronze stars, meritorious service and commendation medals. He retired from the Army at Fort Monroe in 1981 before working for the civil service at Fort Monroe and retired a second time in 1995.
While at Fort Monroe, Bob took up carpentry as a hobby. He could often be found in his shop working on projects for family, friends, friends of family, or anyone who asked for his help. As a woodworker, he was instrumental in creating the “Singleton Angels” at Singleton United Methodist Church in Ware Neck, as well as many large and small projects for the church including the altar railings, and the cross that adorns the grounds, and the Singleton altar. He took great pride in maintaining the church grounds. He was the chair of the Singleton Usher Committee, dutifully welcoming congregants of all sorts and gently reminding the congregation to “sign the attendance pew pads” each Sunday.
Bob was a kind, gentle, and unassuming man who preferred to do things for people without fanfare or attention. When asked what he wanted for his birthday or Christmas his usual answer was “peace and quiet.” As an athlete, he was an avid golfer, playing courses all over the world. He also completed in the 1983 Marine Corps Marathon at the age of 47, finishing with a time of 3 hours, 37 minutes, and 28 seconds. He was a lifelong fan of both Dallas Cowboys and University of Alabama football. He loved his family, especially his five grandchildren, and he will be missed more than words can express.
The family would like to thank his exceptional care team at Ties that Bond: April, Shannon, Jessica, Tiffany, Ashley, Heather, Katie, Mallory, Ashlyn, and Kaidance. He loved each of you as family.
In memory of Bob, contributions can be made to the Singleton Building Fund, at his beloved Singleton United Methodist Church, 5869 Ware Neck Road, Schley, Va. 23154.
Visitation will be at Andrews Funeral Home on Friday, August 21, from 6-8 p.m. and the funeral will be at Singleton United Methodist Church on Saturday, August 22, at 10 a.m.
“Roll Tide.”