Robert James McNamara, a distinguished US Marine Corps veteran and devout Catholic, passed away peacefully at the Kernersville State Veterans Home Hospice Care Program in Kernersville, North Carolina, on December 24, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born on February 20, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York, Robert was the son of the late George and Dorothy McNamara. He proudly enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1954, completing boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina, before serving at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Robert was honored to be a veteran of the Korean War, showcasing his dedication to his country.

At Camp Lejeune, Robert met the love of his life, Joan LaDare Ray, a native of Wake Forest, North Carolina. The two were united in marriage on May 5, 1956, and together they raised three beloved daughters: Patricia, Susan, and Elaine.

Robert possessed a remarkable athletic talent, enjoying and excelling in sports such as baseball, golf, snow skiing, and deep-sea fishing. He also had a passion for hunting and piloting ships in the Atlantic Ocean. Later in life, he became an active member of the Carteret Senior Citizen Club, where he cherished playing pinochle with friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Dorothy; his sister, Patricia Eignor; his beloved wife, Joan McNamara; and his grandson, Zachary Dickerson.

Robert is survived by his sister, Regina, and his three daughters: Patricia Wadford (Martin), Susy Dickerson (Robert), and Laney Williams (Anthony). 

He is survived in spirit by his seven grandchildren: Nickolas Wadford, Dr. Melissa Matthes (Trevor), Grace Radley (Ryan), Sydney Bass (Steven), Logan, Kalen, and Zane Williams, along with eight great-grandchildren: Kenzie and Harper Matthes, Finley Williams, Coleman, Calvin, and Corbin Bass, and Ripley and Sadie Radley.

A celebration of life service will take place, followed by a military burial ceremony at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville, North Carolina, on May 5, 2026. Arrangements are being made by Pierce-Jefferson Funeral Home and Crematory of Kernersville, North Carolina.

May we honor his memory through our own connections with family and friends.