Robert Ellis Cone

Robert Ellis Cone peacefully departed this life on September 16, 2024, at his dream home in Middleburg, FL. He was 85 years old. Born on July 2, 1939, in Janesville, WI, to Floyd Cone and Gertrude Bollwahn, Bob lived a life of love and devotion. He was the younger brother to his sister Lois and the eldest brother to James, Edward, Terry, Samuel, and Jeff, with whom he shared many cherished family memories.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Bob is survived by his wife of 65 years, Judith Ann Cone. Together, they raised their children: David Cone, Sharon Cullen, Susan Gordon, and later adopted their grandchildren, Anthony Cone and Rachel Cone. He was a loving grandfather to his grandchildren: Jennifer, Crystal, Jamie, Joshua, Bekah, Jonathan, Sarah, Amy, and Alyssa; and a proud great-grandfather to fourteen great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son-in-law and best friend, Dean Gordon. His family brought him immense joy and will continue his legacy of strength and love.

Bob served his country for 22 years in the U.S. Navy, where he proudly earned the rank of Senior Chief, a testament to his deep commitment and sense of duty. After his naval career, he continued to find joy and camaraderie in his love for golfing and motorcycle riding with his beloved Southern Cruisers Riding Club. During his lifetime, he was the First Officer of his motorcycle club in Greece as well as the First Officer for the SCRC. His passion for the open road reflected his adventurous spirit and free soul.

A funeral service to honor Bob’s life will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 12:30 PM at Veterans National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218, followed by a celebration of his life at 2:00 PM at St Paul's Episcopal Church, 5616 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. Family, friends, and all who knew him are invited to attend the events to share in remembering an extraordinary man whose love and legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.