Robert Hugh McCracken

Robert Hugh McCracken, known to many as Bob, was born on Tuesday, February 21, 1939, in Haywood County, North Carolina. He passed away peacefully at Silver Bluff Nursing & Rehabilitation in Canton on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Bob was a 1957 graduate of Clyde High School, where he was the quarterback of the football team. He was a graduate of North Carolina State University with a BS degree in Forestry. 

In addition to his professional pursuits, Bob proudly served his country as a veteran of the National Guard, reflecting his deep sense of duty and service to his community.

Following his military service, Bob dedicated a significant part of his life to his career as the Agency Manager for Farm Bureau Insurance, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike. At age 70, he retired from insurance sales. His professional achievements were a testament to his commitment and work ethic 

In addition to his work, Bob enjoyed participating in fast pitch softball. He was a member of the Champion YMCA Fast Pitch Softball Team which later became the Champions of Canton Fast Pitch Softball Team. Bob was honored by being inducted into the State of North Carolina Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame. 

He was a member of Central United Methodist Church of Canton. 

A cherished family man, Bob is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Judie Gatlin McCracken. He also leaves behind a daughter, Ronda Reynolds of Waynesville, and two sons, Sean McCracken of San Antonio, Texas, and Chad McCracken (Janet) of Lake Forest, Ohio. Bob shared a close bond with his sisters, Kittie Smart of Clyde, and Teresa Chason of Canton. He was also a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Texie McCracken, Harper Lee McCracken, Stoney McCracken, and Dagny McCracken, who brought immense joy to his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Hannah Duckett McCracken. He was also predeceased by a sister, Jayne Rhinehart, and a brother, Dan McCracken, who will be remembered fondly.

A memorial service to celebrate Bob's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the Central United Methodist Church of Canton with Reverend Tom Owens officiating. The family will receive friends following the memorial service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116. 

Bob's legacy will continue through the love of his family and friends, who will always remember him for his kind spirit and steadfast dedication to those he cared about.

The care of Mr. McCracken has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.