Robert E. Sandlin, Jr. Obituary (1942 - 2021)

Robert Edward Sandlin, Jr., CWO-3, USMC (Ret.) passed peacefully to be with our Lord on Saturday, January 9, 2021, at his home in Beaufort, SC. Bob was surrounded by his beloved family. He was concerned about their well-being, even while bravely dealing with a painful, fast-moving cancer. Bob was born on January 11, 1942, in Franklin, VA, the son of Robert E., Sr. and Dorothy (Mitchell) Sandlin. He married his high school sweetheart, Judith Duck, on June 4, 1961, one year after joining the Marine Corps. After 21 years of service, including the Vietnam War, he worked as a Power Plant Manager for Union Camp Corporation in the Columbia, SC area for 19 years. Bob and Judith retired to their Low Country home on Lady's Island in 2002. Bob enjoyed golf as long as health allowed, and his woodworking skills were evident in everything from kitchen cabinets to cradles. Children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have cherished items and toys crafted by their "Grandpa" or "GGPa." The Church remained an important foundation throughout his life. Bob had a true servant's heart in all areas of his life. His passion for leading, mentoring, and loving others was apparent to family, friends, and colleagues. He loved to teach, whether it was fishing, workshop projects, or finding Helen Steiner Rice poems that fit the occasion. Nearly 60 years of marriage to his bride set a high bar for those who admired him and wanted to be like him. Survivors include his wife, Judith Sandlin; daughters, Kim Short (Scott) and Renee Bowers (David); grandchildren, Ashleigh Short, Christopher Short, Paul Bowers (Kate), and Brian Bowers (Kate); great-grandchildren, Sadie, Amelia, Everett, and Liam Bowers; brother, Mitch Sandlin (Dave); niece and nephew, Elizabeth Barnette (Kevin) and Raleigh Wilkins; and numerous cousins. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to honor Bob's memory, please consider donations in his name to: American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 https://www.cancer.org; Wounded Warrior Project, Donor Care Center, PO Box 758512, Topeka, KS 66675 https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org; First Christian Church of Shell Point, 102 Savannah Hwy, Beaufort, SC 29906. A Memorial Service will be held at Beaufort National Cemetery on Monday, January 18, 2021. COVID guidelines will be followed and attendance is strictly limited.