Robert Royce Scarbrough
11 July, 1943 – 19 September, 2020
Saturday, September 19, 2020, Robert (Bob) Royce Scarbrough, age 77, passed away in his home. He is survived by his beloved wife, Loretta (Lori), of 48 years, his children, Joshua (Sarah) and Jason (Meghan), and his adoring grandchildren, Liam, Jackson, Palmer, Owen, and Tenley. Bob was the eldest child of Robert and Reita Scarbrough and brother to his loving sister, Janice.
Born in Muskogee, OK and raised in Pratt, KS, he graduated from Pratt High School before spending one year at Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, MO. He then accepted an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. As a Midshipman, he competed for the Brigade in varsity track and was a member of Seventh Company, Second Battalion. He was a proud graduate of the Class of 1966, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.
Following his time in Annapolis, he dutifully served the United States Navy for 10 years. He was awarded, among others, a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars (both with combat V), and two Navy Commendation Medals (both with combat V). He concluded his service as the Engineering Officer for Fleet Training Group Pearl Harbor. Throughout his life, he remained incredibly humble and seldom spoke of his time serving our nation.
While stationed at Pearl Harbor, he completed a Master’s Degree in Systems Management at the University of Southern California (Hawaii). After leaving the Navy in 1976, he went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Michigan. Moving to northern Virginia in 1978, he continued to work with our armed forces in the private sector as a Consultant and Analyst for more than three decades. From 2010 to 2018, he concluded his professional career with DFAS as a Financial Analyst.
Bob was known for his uncanny ability to “get the job done”. He was a true perfectionist; reluctant to surrender command, but always willing to recruit and educate. He shared his eldest son’s love for baseball and his youngest son’s love for automobiles. To him, becoming “Grandpa” was his crowning achievement. He rejoiced upon the arrival of each of his beloved grandchildren and relished every minute he spent with them. His love for his family was unyielding.
Memorial Service Information »
Guestbook Entries
Sign the GuestbookI was fortunate to have worked with Bob during my time at DFAS in Crystal City when on exchange from the British Army. He was an amazing man who brought laughter and joy into the hearts of everyone he met. I have so many happy memories of the times that we shared. He was proud of his country, his Service but most of all his Family. A consummate professional and an all American Hero who will be greatly missed by all of us who were lucky enough to call him a true friend. God bless and may he rest in peace.
Colonel Michael P Sykes OBE
11 October, 2020
I had the honor to work with Bob and was able to know him as a kind and thoughtful person. He always had a smile on his face I enjoyed always stopping by his desk to say hello. He loved his work and the military. May the good memories bring his family comfort and know he was a special man to many.
Trina Florea-Best
2 October, 2020
A stuffed Bill the Goat, wearing his Navy garb, sits on a shelf in my room as he has for about 50 years now. Every time I see Bill I think of my Uncle Bob, his service to our country, and his commitment to family. I’m so thankful that, despite the physical distance that separates us, my kids were able to spend quality time with Uncle Bob (and Aunt Lori) at an age where the kids are able to have lasting memories. Aunt Lori, Josh, Jason, Sarah, Meghan, and kids – everyone here sends our love to you.
John Haeussler
1 October, 2020
Lori there are no words my heart goes out to you and the boys. Prayers and hugs Love ya
Sandra Pixley
1 October, 2020
Bob and I were classmates in high school in Pratt. I was very sorry to hear of his passing. I enjoyed visiting with him at reunions. I know Bob will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Gary E. Swinson
1 October, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with the Scarbrough Family🙏
Martha Weller Fletcher
1 October, 2020
Lori, we worked together at Alfandre after you purchased your home. I remember that your husband was the first unofficial “Mayor” of Belmont Forest (Greene). I was sorry to read of his passing. Hugs to you and yours.
Kelly Whelan
30 September, 2020
Bob was one of the first I met when I joined the IPPS-A program and he was always there to educate, mentor and share a laugh with me. He was a great man and I will always hold him with high regard. Thank you Bob for always making time for me when I needed a sounding board, a much needed laugh and support. I will miss you.
Sherri L. Zimmerman
30 September, 2020
There are no words to express my sadness, only caring and loving thoughts for Lori and their sons. Bob was a wonderful man and caring neighbor. He would go out of his way to help others and offer his wisdom and advice. I truly enjoyed Lori and Bobs friendship and being my neighbors At Belmont Greene. With deepest condolences 🥰
Sally Stevenson
29 September, 2020
Bob is one of the finest human beings I have ever met or had the pleasure to serve with in over 30 years of service to Our Nation. Bob possessed the personality and leadership traits that we all endeavor to achieve – humble, intelligent, caring, wise, honest, candid, passionate and brave. We served to together for 5 years while I had the honor of being the Program Manager for a large Army Transformation. It was a large endeavor (breathtaking actually) and Bob was one of the first people to approach me, to offer assistance, advice, friendship…and many times simply a smile, pat on the back or a warm hand shake. He will always be a huge mentor and friend to me…and he helped me (and really our entire Team) through some very difficult times…and ultimately led to our collective success. It is said that the measure of person is the legacy they leave behind and Bob you have left an amazing legacy and I know with absolute certainty I am a better person, leader, father and husband because of your legacy and mentorship to me. You will continue to sit on my right shoulder with a short few that I look to when things get tough and challenging. You Sir are indeed a Great American. I miss you and God Bless You My Friend. Darby
COL (Retired Darby McNulty), United States Army
29 September, 2020
I worked with Bob for many years at DFAS and always enjoyed our time together. He was one of the most dedicated people of have ever worked with and always wanted to provide the best for our customers. Bob was also fun and had a great sense of humor. After retiring he sent me emails periodically on what was going on with the new house and all those adventures. I will miss him. Prayers for eternal rest.
Sharon Zehring
29 September, 2020
When I went to my first dance, Bob was the first one I danced with. This was in Pratt, Kansas. I remember he told me to relax and not be nervous. He was a great guy.
Suzanne Randle Hattabaugh Ferreira
29 September, 2020
Although I had not seen my Uncle Bob in several years, I have many fond memories of times spent with him in years past. I always thought of him as a serious, intelligent and respected man, who unexpectedly could break into a humourous mood and tickle my funny bone. I am honored to call this man who served our country so selflessly my uncle. Aunt Lori, Josh and Jason, I love you dearly and my thoughts and prayers are with you!
Kelly Odegard
29 September, 2020
Bob was my cousin. I did not know him that well because I was just a little kid when he was in the Navy. I do remember my dad (Ben Scarbrough) always talked about him. He was very proud of the accomplishments Bob made as a young man. I also remember my Grandfather (Frank Scarbrough) was very proud of him as well.
Phil Scarbrough
29 September, 2020
My love and prayers are with the Scarbrough Family! Mr. Scarbrough and I worked together in Crystal City and we were always laughing and having fun-but at the same time taking care of business! He will be dearly missed!
Carmen Rivers
29 September, 2020
A terrific human being and a man who was devoted to our great nation and his family. Thanks for all the memories Bob.
Richard Patterson
29 September, 2020
My heartfelt condolences on your loss. Bob and I worked together for a number of years on the project to combine Human Resources and Military Pay. He could always be counted on to fulfill his promises and contributed greatly to the project. We would meet at the Starbucks in Crystal City and talk about the day ahead. There was the natural chiding about a Navy man on an Army project, but it was always in good fun. Bob never hesitated to make his point and was always a gentleman when doing so. I have missed those conversations over Coffee. May the memories of all that was good about Bob help you through these difficult time.
Hans Kennedy
29 September, 2020
Josh, though we did not know your dad, we are saddened by your loss and pray for you and your family. Your dad sounds like he was an incredible man. God Bless you and your family and may He grant you peace and comfort during your time of loss.
Lee & Coleen Paixao
29 September, 2020
Sorry to hear of Bobs passing, I am proud to have had Bob as a friend both in scouting and in school in Pratt. My prayers go out to Bobs family for their loss. Bob, thank you for your service our country.
Edwin (Ed) Barker
29 September, 2020
Bob and I worked together off and on over a 15 year period, he and I would laugh, argue, have lunch and I used to tease him that he was at DFAS when the LES was on a stone tablet – he had a great sense of humor and always remained a forward thinker and continued to learn more in his profession – I always admired and respected him for that – he will be missed and Im very sorry for your loss
Matthew Chatell
28 September, 2020
Sorry to hear this. Bob and I shared boy scout adventures. I respected his patriotism and values
David McEchron
28 September, 2020
I’m so very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. We were neighbors and friends, our friendship began in the Third grade when we both attended North School in Pratt, KS. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob’s family and friends.
Jim Nixon
28 September, 2020
Bob and I were good friends at USNA. Our paths diverged after graduation, but I always enjoyed catching up with him at reunions. I know he’ll be missed. Peace to Bob and to his family here on earth.
Michael Field
28 September, 2020
It was an honor and privilege to work with Bob on many tasks while I was a civil servant. He was a consummate professional and dedicated American. He will certainly be missed. Until we meet in Valhalla.
Allen C. Tidwell
28 September, 2020
I’m so sorry to hear this. I worked with Bob at DFAS for a few years and always loved his dedication and professionalism. His sense of humor was the greatest. He will be missed.
Darlene Jones
28 September, 2020
So very sorry to learn of Bob’s passing!!..I always enjoyed Bob in HS and looked forward to seeing him at reunions ….my thoughts go out to his family and Jan. Proud of all his dedication…professionally and how he loved his family!!!!!😢
Millie Gates Grauel
28 September, 2020
Thank you for your dedication and service to our country. You will always be remembered by your fellow Canoe U. Shipmates!
Mikkel Moller ’66
28 September, 2020
Whenever two or more of us shall meet, we will speak kindly of your name! You will be missed!