Robert H. Stretcher Jr.
Loving husband, father, and grandfather, Robert Hatfield Stretcher, Jr., 90, passed away on February 16, 2025, following a lengthy illness. A native of Waynesville, he was the son of the late Dr. Robert H. Stretcher and Harriett U. Stretcher. He is preceded in death by his brother, Dr. George S. Stretcher, his stepson, Brian Christopher Tackett, and grandson, Justin Matthew Earle.
He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Nancy; and two children from a previous marriage, Lucia Sigmar of Nacogdoches, TX, and Robert H. Stretcher, III (Debbie) of Signal Mountain, TN; a granddaughter, Ann-Jolie Sigmar; grandsons Thomas Adam Stretcher and Joshua Ryan Earle (Megan); his sister-in-law, Olynda B. Stretcher; and numerous nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends whom he considered a part of his family.
Robert attended Waynesville Township High School where he played in the band. He enjoyed tennis, bowling, and working at the family’s apple orchard in Black Mountain. He later graduated from Fishburn Military Academy in Waynesboro, Virginia. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Business from Western Carolina University, and his Master of Science degree in Business Marketing and Finance from the University of Tennessee. He began his college teaching career at Auburn University and subsequently taught generations of business students at the University of Chattanooga, Austin Peay State University, Appalachian State University, Mars Hill College, Delta State University, University of North Alabama, and Northeastern Oklahoma State University. He was also an Agency Provider with John Hancock Insurance and a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).
Following his retirement from teaching, he and Nancy returned to Waynesville where he took up his early love of the trumpet. An accomplished musician, he began a second career as a Charter Member of the Haywood Community Band and also played in the Asheville Community Band and the Smoky Mountain Brass Band. His interests ranged widely, and he shared his knowledge freely. An avid reader, Robert was a naturalist and especially enjoyed teaching his children and grandchildren about the flora and fauna of Western North Carolina. He also held a deep respect for Native American culture and studied for several years under the late Tom Hendrix in Florence, Alabama.
The family wishes to convey their sincere appreciation to the entire staff of Maggie Valley Nursing and Rehab for their outstanding patient care and comfort. A memorial celebration of his life will be announced at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his honor to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to a charity of your choice.