Cleveland Robert Hope Jr.

Cleveland Robert Hope Jr. passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026, in Macon at the age of 60, surrounded by the love of family. Though hearts are heavy in his absence, those who knew him find comfort in the steadfast faith that carried him through every season of life and now carries him home to the Lord he loved so deeply.

Known lovingly to many as Robby, he spent his life making people feel seen, valued, and genuinely loved. He had a warmth about him that could soften even the hardest days, and a kindness that drew people to him instantly. Robby never hesitated to tell others how much he cared for them or how deeply he appreciated them, and those words became lasting gifts to the people fortunate enough to know him.

Robby attended First Presbyterian Day School before continuing his education at the University of Georgia. He helped run a small business for more than twenty years, dedicating much of his life to hard work, loyalty, and providing for those he loved.

He was deeply creative and full of passion for the things that brought beauty and joy to life. Robby loved music and singing, especially 80s music, had a lifelong appreciation for science fiction, and was an avid lover of classic cars and water sports. He spent many of his happiest days at Lake Tobesofkee enjoying the water, riding jet skis, and making memories with those he loved. In his youth, his gift for writing was recognized when he received an award for his poetry, a reflection of the thoughtful, expressive soul so many came to know throughout his life.

A devoted Christian with a deep theological understanding of the Bible, Robby was someone people naturally turned to with questions about faith, hardship, and life itself. He loved thoughtful conversations about Scripture and had a rare ability to offer wisdom with both grace and humility. His faith was not simply something he believed, it was something he lived. Even in the face of hardship, he carried himself with tremendous strength, unwavering trust, and complete faith in God’s plan.

He is survived by his beloved son, Matthew Hope, and daughter-in-law, Natalie Hope; his mother, Carolyn Fried; his sister, Vicki (Grant Sr.) Tilley; his nephews, Parker (Michelle) and Grant Jr. Tilley; his great nephew and great niece; along with cousins, cherished friends, and all those blessed enough to know and love him.

In his final days, Robby remained grounded in the faith that defined his life. Surrounded by the love of his son and daughter-in-law, he never let go of his trust in the Lord. His family takes peace in knowing that the faith he carried so beautifully throughout his life became the very thing that carried him home.

Robby leaves behind a legacy of enduring love, unwavering trust, compassion without condition, and the reminder to never give up no matter what life may bring. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his caring heart, his thoughtful conversations, and the way he made others feel deeply loved simply by being himself.

His favorite verse now carries even deeper meaning for all who mourn him:

“then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

— 1 Thessalonians 4:17

Though he will be deeply missed every day, his family finds comfort in knowing that his story does not end here, and that one day, through Christ, they will see him again.