Known affectionately as “Pops”, Bob found his greatest joy in being a grandfather. He was an adventurer at heart who loved hiking, traveling, and spending time with loved ones. But above all, he was a faithful servant of Christ whose ministry spanned decades and transformed lives around the world. 

Bob was a 1974 graduate of Springfield High School. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he was an active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and served as chapter President. He later earned his Master of Divinity degree from Emory University. 

Bob began his ministry as an associate youth minister at Allgood Road United Methodist Church, followed by a similar role at Gardendale Mount Vernon UMC. He then served for eight impactful years as the youth minister at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church. His passion for global ministry led him to serve in the World Division of the United Methodist Church before taking on leadership roles that would shape the future of faith-based education and financial stewardship. 

For over 20 years, Bob served as President and CEO of the Georgia United Methodist Foundation, and later, for 13 years, as President of the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation (UMHEF), where he had previously served as a board member. Throughout his career, Bob championed access to higher education and mentored countless young men and women in their faith journeys. 

Bob had recently retired, eager to embrace the next chapter of life. True to form, he chose to begin that chapter with purpose and passion, hiking the Camino de Santiago, a dream he had long held. 

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Robert R. and Deborah Fletcher Scholarship Fund, honoring Bob’s lifelong commitment to ministry and education. Contributions may be made at: https://umhef.org/in-memory-b…

Bob’s legacy lives on in the lives he changed, the faith he shared, and the love he gave so freely. 

*A Celebration of Life service will be held at Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church, located at 1450 Pine Road, Dacula, GA 30019, on Saturday, October 18th, 2025. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by the service at 1:00 PM. A reception will follow the service, and all are welcome to attend as we honor and remember Bob’s life and legacy.