Robert Preston Cope

Robert (Bob) Preston Cope, 90, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 6, 2025. Bob was born in Fayetteville, NC on December 19, 1934, and lived his life outside of the military in the Hope Mills area.

A proud veteran, Bob retired from the United States Navy after 27 years of honorable service. Throughout his naval career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment, courage, and leadership, earning the respect of his fellow service members. After retiring from the Navy, he continued to serve his community through the Shriners and Masons Clubs, among others.

Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and steadfast love for his family. Whether sharing stories of his time at sea or growing up on the family farm, he left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Rhonda Washburn (Frank) of Oak Grove, MN; his son, Robert J. Cope of Millington, MI; his sisters, Alice C. Black and Laura C. McIntosh (Larry), both of Fayetteville; seven grandchildren-Michael Washburn, Risa Larson, Adam Cope, Breanna Washburn, David Washburn, Rain Anderson, and Rylyn Anderson, all of Minnesota; six great-grandchildren-Michael Washburn, Jr., Preston Nelson, Kennedy Larson, Milena Washburn, Cason Nelson, and Cameron Larson; nephew, Doug McIntosh (Kay); and niece, Dawn Gillis (Robert), both of Fayetteville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Preston and Bettie Cope; former wife, Rita Cope; beloved daughter, Rima Cope Anderson; grandson, Rory Anderson; and special friend, Sheila Vannoy.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Pinecrest Funeral and Cremation Services. Burial with military honors will follow at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery on Cliffdale Road. The family will receive friends during a visitation before the service at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital Burn Ward at www.shrinerschildrens.org.

Bob’s legacy of service, love, and integrity will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.