Our beloved Dad, Uncle, Brother, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, and Friend. Mr. Robert William Isom, Jr. was called to take his rest with his loving and supportive family by his side, on November 11, 2023 (Veteran’s Day) to transition alongside God Almighty!
Deacon Robert William Isom, Jr. was born in Louisville, KY on July 09, 1939. He was the oldest of three siblings born to Robert William Isom, Sr. and Mary Francis Isom. He took to both sports and the arts (acting and writing) at an early age.
After graduating from Central High School in 1960, alongside the legendary Muhammad Ali, he joined the United States Navy as a Seaman Recruit assigned as a Tailor and a Chef. Robert continued his career in the Navy for over 20 years and earned the rank of SH1 (E-6) before retiring. Deciding to continue to serve, he went into the Civil Service to work for the U.S. Air Force in Washington D.C (Bolling Air Force Base). He remained steadfast and loyal in his duties for another 20 years as a Freight Specialist (Transportation Management Organization) and Senior Tailor, retiring for a second time in 1981. He became a VFW post 127 member in Washington, DC.
Laying down his roots in Virginia, a previous duty station, Robert would return to his passion of cooking and became a licensed and Virgina State Certified Food Manager. Given his credentials, he decided to work for Chesapeake Public School System, in the cafeteria for 9 years as well as becoming a Sam’s Club Food Demonstrator. Still, he found time to volunteer his talents at the school or church.
He enjoyed traveling to Solomon’s Island, MD, Williamsburg, VA and his hometown in Louisville, KY. His hobbies involved playing horseshoes, crabbing, watching “Redskins” football games or old Western movies, visiting friends and family; and of course, his passion, cooking for those he loved. To many, he was known as Pops, Big Bob, Big Poppa, Uncle Junie and the Soul Food Master of Ribs, and Carolina Barbeque. Around holiday gatherings, he was known to bring friends and family together.
He married Barbara Hampton on October 23, 2004, and they both joined First Baptist Church, South Portsmouth on November 02, 2008. He was baptized in December of 2008, where he served in the Men’s Ministry, Food and Van Ministry and later became a Deacon-Elect. He faithfully attended church online, even until his last Sunday on earth. Afterwards, taking communion and listening to his favorite gospel singer, Lee Williams sing I Can’t Give Up. “Turn it up, that’s my boy!”, he would say.
His wife, Barbara D. Isom, sister, Naomi Boone and half-sister, Robin Stoner pre-deceased him.
He leaves to cherish his memories; His sister: Arnetta L. Locke. Sons: Robert W. Isom, III, Andrew R. Isom, Troy L. Wright, Allan T. Seay. Daughters: Zina S. Bright, Rochelle D. Carter (Jeffery), Robyn V. White, Kim R. Campbell, Arnetta L. Freeman, Belinda M. Isom (London). Stepsons: Joseph Short (Yvette), Dewon Williams, Thomas Hampton (Monique), Rodrigues Hampton. Stepdaughter: Tameka Lathan (Kevin). Fiancé: Deborah A. Whitfield. 46 Grandchildren, 39 Great Grandchildren, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.