Robert Stephens Ice

Born on January 3, 1931, in Fairmont, West Virginia, Bob cherished his childhood in the West Virginia Hills, where he formed lifelong bonds with nature and his community. He was son of the late Genevieve & Herschel Ice and the brother to the late Emily Ellen Ice Read Cather, who preceded in welcoming him to New Orleans in 1957—a visit that would become permanent.

A proud alumnus of West Virginia University, Bob graduated in 1953 and was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and of the ROTC. This led him to join the U.S. Army, where he was commissioned as a First Lieutenant in 1955 and served honorably during his deployment in Europe.

Upon returning stateside, Bob arrived in New Orleans to visit his sister and instantly fell in love with the city's vibrant spirit. He immersed himself in its rich culture, making it his forever home. Bob's passion for music shone brightly as a founding member of the legendary Last Straws jazz band. The group delighted audiences with their lively performances across the globe, including tours in Europe, Cuba, New York, Cape Cod, and of course, the heart of New Orleans itself.

In 1964, Bob found his true love when he married his wife Sherwood Lampton Yarborough. Together, they raised two wonderful sons: Robert Stephens Ice, Jr. (Bonnie) and Eric Lampton Taylor Ice. Bob's legacy continues through his four cherished grandchildren: Finley Elizabeth Ice, Taylor Breeden Ice, William Alexander Ice and Matthew Conaway Ice.

Professionally, Bob built a distinguished career in sales, later excelling as a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley until his retirement. His integrity and warmth earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

Services will be held privately, followed by a Celebration of Life for family and friends. Bob will return home to West Virginia for interment in the ancestral Ice Family Cemetery.

A life well lived, Bob, the Last of The Last Straws will be jamming eternal to “Time Marches On.”