Robert Allen Wiggins

Robert was born in Kinston, North Carolina on October 13, 1947, to Harvey and Hazel Wiggins. He graduated North Lenoir High School in 1968 and became a member of Sharon United Methodist Church, publicly professing his faith in Jesus Christ in 1958.

Robert will forever be remembered as a hardworking, honest and kind-hearted man who dedicated his life to providing for his family and ensuring the safety of his community. He deeply cherished the memories of the camaraderie and brotherhood of the organizations to which he belonged and loved to deer hunt, fish, watch NASCAR, and fire up the grill weekly for a good ribeye steak.

Robert’s career started as a butcher for Big Star in New Bern. However, he soon found his true calling proudly serving as a firefighter. He was a charter member of Rhems Volunteer Fire Department and actively served for 20 years, with 14 years leading the department as Chief. He was awarded Fireman of the Year twice during his tenure. Later Robert joined the City of New Bern Fire Department, where he served with distinction for 6 years. Robert was also a member of the Scottish Rite of New Bern, Shriners International and was a proud Mason with Doric Lodge No. 568.

Thankful for his life of enduring love and continuing in his memory are his wife of 51 years, Glenda Mallard Wiggins, daughter Missy Wiggins Phelps (husband, Bobby), step-daughter Lisa Johnston, grandson Jason Gawel, and sister Janet Molina.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Harry “Red” Wiggins.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the support and compassionate care provided by the doctors at Duke University Hospital, private caregivers, and the nurses and therapists with Carteret Home Health & Hospice who helped us navigate these past two years.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Rhems Volunteer Fire Department 5860 US Hwy 17 South, New Bern, NC 28562 or the NC Masonic Foundation (mfnc.org).

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Cotten Funeral Home, New Bern. A memorial service will follow in the chapel at 1:00 pm. Fireman's Funeral Honors will conclude the service in the chapel and then he will be laid to rest at Friendship Church Cemetery with Masonic Rites, 139 10 Mile Fork Rd., Trenton, NC 28585.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Robert Allen Wiggins.