Rev. Robert Lee Earwood

Rev. Robert “Bob” Lee Earwood, 76, of Fairview went home to his Lord on Friday, April 12, 2024. Born April 23, 1947, in Avery County, NC, he was a son of the late Emory Earwood Jr. and Helen Louise Wiseman Earwood. In 1997, he graduated from Anchor Bible College in Brevard, NC, and enjoyed ministering to people especially those in local long-term care facilities and to fellow Veterans staying at the Veterans Restoration Quarters. Of his many hobbies, his favorites were deer hunting, fishing and being a collector of many things.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Lynne Earwood, son, Robert “Robby” Earwood Jr., and brother, Steve Earwood. Surviving are his children Lynnette Antle (Steve) of Fairview, NC, Tim Earwood (Jill) of Asheville, NC, Stephanie Earwood of Swannanoa, NC, and Billy Earwood (Jaime) of Fairview, NC. Also, his grandchildren, Richie Solano, Ashton Earwood, Megan Sales (Rocky), Kayleen May (Robert), Paige Roberts (Ryan), Bobby Wallen (Lauren), and Andrew Wallen (Kaitlyn); and great-grandchildren, Sophie, Rush, Emory, Tucker, Sadie, Hattie, Charlie, and Cambrie.

Bob proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His service to his country was highly decorated including 2 Purple Hearts and 2 Bronze Stars. After returning from Vietnam, Bob attempted to put the war behind him and poured into raising his family and service to his community. It wasn’t until many years later he would join a group of fellow comrades at the V.A. in a creative writing project led by Dr. Bruce Kelly and author Joseph Bathanti. The book that resulted, 'Brothers Like These', is a powerful account of Vietnam War Veterans recounting their experiences from the Vietnam War. As described by Dr. Kelly and Mr. Bathanti, though often quiet, “Preacher” was steady, attentive, strong, and kind, but most of all courageous as he shared his heart rendering accounts of the war. Lasting relationships were formed from this experience, and he gratefully found some healing. Dr. Kelly and Mr. Bathanti both shared with family what an honor it was to have known Bob. In the words of Dr. Kelly at Bob’s bedside while being cared for by the amazing staff at the Asheville VA.’s Valor Hospice Unit, "Carry on Soldier”."

A private memorial service and interment will be held for both Bob and his late wife, Lynne at the Western Carolina State Veteran’s Cemetery in Black Mountain, NC with Pastor Tim Earwood officiating.

Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family at this time.

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