Robert Bradley Haselden

He was an honorable man and devoted public servant with over 26 years dedicated to law enforcement. He worked as an officer with the NC Department of Corrections, Boonville Police Department and earned rank of Lieutenant with the Yadkin County Sheriff’s Department before relocating to Wilmington. He then joined the UNCW Police Department, and later retired from the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department. He also worked with the NC Forest Service and the NC Ferry Division (Southport/Fort Fisher Ferry).

He dedicated his time serving as a Commissioner for the Town of Boonville, external Vice President for NC Jaycees, Charter Member of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)-Yadkin County Chapter and was instrumental in the creation of the Yadkin County Domestic Violence Program. He was also an enthusiastic volunteer with Brunswick County Gator Senior Games and Brunswick County Parks and Recreation for over 15 years.

Upon retirement he enjoyed spending time in nature: boating, gardening, bird watching, and gazing at the stars. Ever the adventurous spirit, he enjoyed skydiving, ziplining, and getting his first tattoo---all after the age of 57!

Rob was a man of integrity who treated people with kindness and respect. He had a generous heart and a wonderful sense of humor. Always quick with a story to share and a sweet smile to give. He never met a stranger and genuinely cared for the well-being of others. Although he enjoyed wonderful relationships with his Sunset Harbor neighbors, his friends back in Yadkin County remained close to his heart.

In his free time, he became a self-taught craftsman, spending endless hours renovating his home, building furniture, creating, and “tinkering”. He taught his girls to install flooring and build fences and they worked together as a team on many home improvements. When not working on a project, you could find him spending time with his family or sitting on the porch enjoying the views of the Lockwood Folly Bay.

Of all his accomplishments, he was most proud of his family. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 51 years, Dayle Odom; his daughters, Khrystye Haselden (Jenn Stoneham) and Katie Mintz; his granddaughter, MaryClaire Mintz; sisters, Connie Bennett and Linda Moore (Benjamin); brother, Raymond Swaim (Daphne); aunt, Chris Haselden; his dog Hobie and cats Smokey and Moonpie; Granddogs Elijah and Courtney; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will forever remember their “Uncle Rob”.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, sister Janie B. Gore, and beloved dog Lucy.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Sunset Harbor and in lieu of flowers donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Sunset Harbor Building Fund, 3867 Sunset Harbor Road, Bolivia, NC 28422.

A celebration of his well-lived life is planned for Spring 2021.