Robert Havird Carlton

Born on May 5, 1944, to Vernon Courtney Carlton Sr. and Gladys Havird Carlton, Bobby grew up with a strong sense of family, faith, and dedication to others. He went on to graduate from Newberry College with a Bachelor of Science in History and Physical Education. Later, he earned his Master’s in Education from Clemson University, a testament to his lifelong commitment to learning.

For more than 30 years, Bobby devoted himself to coaching and teaching. He coached and taught at Gaffney High School, Eau Claire High School, and later at Goose Creek High School, where he served as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach for 15 years. He also had the privilege of coaching under the legendary Frank Howard, Red Parker, and Danny Ford at Clemson University. Throughout his career, he touched countless lives both on and off the field.

Bobby’s passion for football extended beyond his schools. He served as an assistant coach at the Shrine Bowl and the North-South High School Football games, helping shape the careers of young athletes across the state. He was also a referee for ACC Basketball, and retired from Premier School Agendas after 22 years. His devotion to students influenced education and athletics during his time in South Carolina.

Away from work, Bobby found great joy in golf. A proud member of Ponderosa Country Club and the former Oaks Country Club, he cherished time on the course especially when shared with his wife, Laura; who was not only his partner in life but also his best friend and favorite golfing companion.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Vernon Courtney Carlton Jr.; his sisters, Benny Lou “Blue” (Brigham) and Rose (McPhaul); and his son, Cody Lyn Carlton.

Bobby is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Laura Floyd Carlton; his bonus-son, Robert Philip Rivers (Sheila); his bonus-daughter, Kimberly Slaubaugh (Brian); his granddaughters, Marina Slaubaugh, Jordyn Slaubaugh, Hannah Rivers, Brooke Trapp(Blake), and Megan Mims; his grandsons, Preston Carlton, Lee Mims, Christopher Mims, Andrew Mims; and his great-grandson, Kaiden L. Rivers.

His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and the many students and athletes who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation for Robert will be held Wednesday, September 17, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel, 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow the service at Rosemont Cemetery, 2400 College Street, Newberry, SC 29108. The service will be officiated by Reverend Thomas Cousins with music by Megan Mims.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association – South Carolina Chapter, 1232 Village Green Blvd., Suite E Myrtle Beach, SC 29577; Phone: 800-272-3900, www.alz.org/sc or Shriners Children’s Hospital, https://donate.lovetotherescue.org.