Robert Hutchinson, Sr

Robert "Hutch" Hutchinson Sr., age 82, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, September 6, 2024, while recovering from a recent hospital stay. Born in 1942 in Monaca, Pennsylvania, Hutch lived a life of dedication, service, and love.

In 1965, Hutch married the love of his life, Carol Sue, with whom he shared nearly six decades of partnership. A Vietnam veteran, Hutch proudly served his country for 26 years in the United States Air Force, where he earned the rank of Senior Master Sergeant before retiring in 1987 from the Command Chaplains Office.

During his time in the Air Force, Hutch furthered his education, obtaining his Bachelor's degree from St. Leo's University and later a Master's in Business Administration from the University of Maryland. Following his military retirement, Hutch continued to make an impact in the civilian world. He worked for E-Systems Corporation, served in various lay ministerial roles in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church, and brought joy to countless lives during his 10 years at Disney, where his smile and welcoming spirit were cherished by all.

Hutch’s life was a testament to his deep love for Jesus, which he expressed through his kind and gentle spirit toward others. His warmth, compassion, and dedication to service will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Milford and Irene Hutchinson; brothers, John D. Hutchinson, Michael J. Hutchinson, Raymond D. Hutchinson, Milford B Hutchinson Jr., William Leonard Hutchinson, Elmer E. Hutchinson, Dale Hutchinson and sister, Julia M. Brush. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Sue; daughter, Dr. Dawn L. Hutchinson;  son, Rev. Robert J. Hutchinson Jr.; grandchildren, Aralynn McVey, Micah Hutchinson. Piper Hutchinson Spencer, Justin Hutchinson, Nicole Hutchinson; great-grandchild, Karter Hutchinson Copeland, all of whom he loved dearly.  

A service celebrating Hutch’s life will be held at Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church this Saturday at 11:00 am, followed by a reception, where family and friends will gather to honor a life lived with grace and love. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Feed Tampa Bay, Cross Paws Dog Rescue, and Beymar United Methodist Church in Winter Haven in his memory.