Rev. Dr. Robert Lee Baldridge
August 13, 1933 ~ December 13, 2020
Born in:
Richmond, VA
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Rev. Dr. Robert Lee Baldridge, age 87, died peacefully on December 13, 2020 at his home in Asheville, NC.
Bob was born in Richmond, Virginia, attended the University of Richmond where he met and later married his life long partner and love of his life, Janice. Bob graduated from Duke University Divinity School in 1959 and served as a minister in the North Carolina United Methodist Conference for 41 years. Later in his career, he received his doctorate from United Theological Seminary in Ohio. After retirement Bob and Janice moved to Lake Junaluska where Bob became an integral part of The Haywood Arts Regional Theater garnering the 2005 Actor of the Year Award. In 2005, they moved to Givens Estates in Asheville, NC. Bob continued to share his talents with the community through his love of music as one of the founding members of The Red Hots, a big band era trio.
Bob will be remembered by all who met him for his infectious energy, quick wit and indomitable spirit.
Bob is survived by his wife of 65 years, Janice Boyer Baldridge, daughters Susan Burley (Richard), Ruth Willett (Jeff), son John Mark (Barbara), and grandchildren Richard Charles Burley, Elizabeth Willett, and James Michael Willett.
A memorial will be held at the Givens Estates Columbarium at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Givens Estates Resident Assistance Ministry, Attn: Mark Bailey, 2360 Sweeten Creek Rd. Asheville, NC 28803.
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.
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Bob embodied the Givens spirit of creativity and hospitality, and is a major reason I very quickly found joy in my work upon my arrival ten years ago. Along with his wonderful partner Janice and their children, I grieve the loss of a great spirit among us. His good will and humor were infectious, and his encouragement and support were vital to my own development. Brother Bob, I look forward to joining you at the Great Banquet!
Very sad to learn of Rev Baldridge’s passing. Sending prayers for comfort and consolation to the family.
Sherry & Tom Dewees
Bob was Sr. Pastor at Grace: Wilmington. I was fresh out of Divinity School as his Program Director. Things were going well as they always did when Bob was in charge. One of the beloved Saints stopped us in the hallway, paid us some lavish compliments and said “You must be proud to know when the history of Grace is told you will be remembered as the strongest team ever.” With complete sincerity he said “Gosh we hope not?” She was puzzled. He continued “We hope everyone who follows us surpasses us and we are barely recalled.” He was a man of surpassing intellect and humor and above all humility. For the record, I wanted to take the compliment and run!
My sincere condolences to the family. I worked with Bob at the Methodist Building in the late 70s. I have always remembered one thing he taught me, “trust the process.” He used it in referring to running meetings or training sessions. If you have designed the best process then do it and let it work through and it will work. It’s helped me in several situations. I remember him also as so very energetic and full of good ideas.
Linda Edwards Randall
Dear Janice,
I was so sorry to learn of Bob’s death and send my love to you and your family. Marion and I enjoyed many good times with the two of you while we were in the NC Conference.
The North Carolina Conference gives thanks to God for the life of Bob Baldridge who with compassion and grace served churches in eastern North Carolina and the wider connection of United Methodist people. As Director of Conference Council on Ministries, Bob passed the baton to me as he retired, offering wisdom, encouragement and support. His conference business card was in the top right drawer of the desk, and I kept it there as an icon for 5 years. Bob mentored and guided many, like myself, into a deeper and fuller life in Christ’s ministry. He was our colleague, mentor and friend in Christ. Thanks be to God for his abundant and now eternal life.
Bob was a great guy, and I enjoyed his guidance from the Conference Office. Janice, my thoughts are with you. May Bob Rest In Peace and Rise in Glory!
Bob and I were birth twins, born on August 13, 1933 and great friends at Duke and throughout the years. He loaned Dot and me his pop-up camper which we pulled to San Francisco and back. A great friend indeed.
I preached a revival for him at Pinetops many years ago. He was my DS too in the Rockingham District.