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With profound sadness and endless love, we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Hennes, Jr. on September 13, 2026 at the age of 62.
Born on December 23, 1963, in Lorain, OH, Bob lived a life of service to others defined by purpose, integrity, and compassion. He pursued excellence in all he did and built a distinguished career, marked by great accomplishments. Throughout his professional journey, he was respected not only for his expertise and leadership but also for the generosity, humility, and encouragement he extended to colleagues and friends.
Bob proudly served in the United States Army for over twenty years, retiring at the rank of Master Sergeant. He was a highly respected leader who served with distinction as an Airborne Infantryman, and his fondest assignments were with the 75th Ranger Regiment and 82nd Airborne Division; earning him the beloved nickname “Ranger Bob” to peers and friends. Bob received many accolades and awards throughout his time in service, none more important to him than the United States Army Ranger Tab and he lived his life according to the Ranger Creed.
Driven by a deep passion for helping others and a servant’s heart, Bob found a meaningful second career in radiation oncology, where he could make a difference in the lives of patients and their families during some of their most difficult moments. He found tremendous joy in working at Coastal Cancer Center – Radiation for 10 years. He brought compassion, dedication, and genuine care to his work, treating each person not simply as a patient, but as someone deserving of hope, dignity, and kindness. Yet, of all the roles he held, none meant more to him than being a husband, father, GrandBob, Uncle Bob, family member, and friend. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and he created a legacy of love that will continue through all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He is survived by his wife, Dena Richardson; son, Vince Hennes (Alex); daughter, Amanda Jackson; grandsons, Jacob, Trent, and Cole Hennes and Jayce Jackson, Jr. and James Michael Ray. He is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Dawn and Travis Richardson and special nieces Bailey and Carlee Richardson. Several aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.
He was an avid sports fanatic and never missed a chance to cheer on the Carolina Panthers, the Georgia Bulldogs, the Duke Blue Devils, the Atlanta Braves and the Carolina Hurricanes. He also loved to travel and spend time with friends and family. He embraced life with enthusiasm and gratitude. His character, humor, and generous spirit touched lives far beyond his immediate circle.
Though words cannot fully express the loss we feel, we take comfort in the countless memories he gave us and the extraordinary life he lived. His love will remain in our hearts always, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The family will receive visitors at McMillian Smalls Funeral Home in Myrtle Beach, SC beginning at 12:30pm on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
The funeral service will follow at 2pm. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, DUMC 3624, Durham, NC 27710, or online at tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/donate.
"Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in the kindness they shared, the lives they touched, and the love they gave."
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