Robert "Bobby" Turlington, 97, of Rahway, NJ, passed away on December 29, 2024 of natural causes.

Robert was born on January 25, 1927, to Owen and Floria Turlington in the city of Newark, NJ.  Born into a large family, he was the fifth of six children in the Turlington household.  He is cherished in memory and preceded in death by his beloved siblings: Stanley Turlington, Jean Johnson, Catherine Edwards-Hayes, Owen Turlington, and John Turlington.

In his early years, Robert's life took a beautiful turn when he met Sylvia, the love of his life. Their enduring bond led to a joyful marriage that lasted an incredible 56 years, until Sylvia's passing in December 2010. Together, they nurtured a warm and loving home in Newark, where they raised three children: Valerie, Robert, and Nicole (Rodriguez) instilling in them the values of family, hard work, and compassion.

Robert's educational journey took place within the Newark school system, where he grew up surrounded by the vibrant culture of Bergen Street. He served in the United States Army from 1950 to 1952. A jack of all trades, he began his career working for the County of Essex as a laborer, then promoted to highway foreman and then to highway maintenance superintendent, jobs that taught him the value of hard labor and determination. His skills and dedication eventually propelled him to become the Director of Roads and Bridges for the County of Essex, New Jersey, where he played a crucial role in improving the infrastructure of his community for over 38 years.

Robert is survived by his children, 7 grandchildren, Jason, Gina, Tiffani Turlington and Marcus Bolton, Andrew, Jessica (Noblecilla), and Christopher Rodriguez; 6 great-grandchildren: Aiden, Avianna and Aria Noblecilla, William, TJ, and Leon Turlington, Daughter-in-law Rhonda (Bolton), Son-in-law Luis Rodriguez, Grandson-in-law Fernando Noblecilla and Granddaughters-in-law Tahnisha Turlington and Jaselyn (Rodriguez).

His presence brought warmth and vitality to every gathering, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. Robert will be profoundly missed, not just for his stories and laughter, but for the unwavering love he shared with his family and friends.

The family requests that all flowers and notes be sent to 490 Conant Street, Hillside, NJ 07205.  On January 14, 2025, there will be a celebration of life Cotton Funeral Service located at 1025 Bergen St, Newark, NJ 07112.

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