Robert N. Serros, M.D.

In Loving Memory of Dr. Robert N. “Bob” Serros

Dr. Robert N. Serros, a devoted husband, loving father, and distinguished ophthalmologist, entered eternal rest after a lifetime of faith, service, and healing on February 28, 2025. Born on May 20, 1931 in Orlando, Florida, to Nick and Antonette Serros, he was a man deeply rooted in both his community and his Catholic faith. He departed this world leaving behind a legacy woven into the fabric of the city he cherished.

Bob, as he was lovingly known, attended St. James Catholic School. From a young age, he was a man of deep curiosity, dedication, and purpose. As a teenager, he heard the call of journalism, working tirelessly as a copy boy at the Orlando Sentinel, captivated by the fast pace and the thrill of storytelling. It was a time of innocence and adventure, when he could ride his bicycle home in the early hours around Lake Eola, soaking in the beauty of a city he would later serve with his heart and soul.

He graduated from Orlando High School in 1949, before pursuing his studies at Florida State University. At FSU, he was a charter member of Phi Delta Theta. He then transferred to the University of Florida where he received his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and served as the Vice President of Phi Delta Theta. He continued his journey in medicine to the University of Miami, where he earned his M.D. in 1959. It was during his internship at Charity Hospital in New Orleans that he met the love of his life, Rosalee Culicchia and together they built a family and a legacy of love. A veteran and patriot, Dr. Serros served as a Flight Surgeon in the United States Air Force, embodying his lifelong dedication to service.

He practiced general medicine in Orlando for 1 year and then pursued a fellowship in Ophthalmology at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.

Upon returning to Orlando, he embarked on a distinguished medical career, becoming the first ophthalmologist in Osceola County to perform cataract surgery. His pioneering spirit and dedication to his patients were unparalleled. He was known to pray with his patients prior to surgery. He continued to practice with a deep sense of compassion until his well-earned retirement in 2009.

Though his professional career led him to pioneer advancements in eye surgery, Bob’s devotion to history and community preservation became his lifelong calling. He was a champion of Orlando’s past, ensuring that its stories, landmarks, and legacy would not be forgotten. He was a recipient of the prestigious Cheney Award. His tireless advocacy and powerful words in defense of history left an indelible mark on the city.

Dr. Serros lived a life of generosity, faith, and civic engagement. He was an active member of St. James Cathedral, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and Layman Lecturer, and he championed efforts to preserve Orlando’s cultural and historical heritage. He served as President of the Orange County Medical Society, the Central Florida Society of Ophthalmology, and the Medical Advisory Board of the Eye Bank of Florida, always advocating for the well-being of his community.

Though deeply devoted to his city, his love for family was the cornerstone of his life. He shared a special bond with his late brother, Andrew “Andy” Serros, also a Cheney Award recipient, and carried the memory of his eldest brother, Jerome Christopher Serros, who bravely served in the U.S. Army Air Forces 55th Fighter Squadron and made the ultimate sacrifice in November 1944.

Bob’s life was a testament to faith, service, and the power of remembrance. He understood that preserving history is not merely an act of nostalgia, but a sacred duty—an effort to honor those who came before us and to guide those who come after. Though he has departed from this world, Bob’s presence lingers in the streets of downtown Orlando, in the walls of the buildings he fought to protect, and in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

He is survived by Rosalee, his wife and soul mate of almost 65 years, children, Diana Coffman (Greg) Barbara Burnes (Chuck) and Bobby Serros Jr. (Christina). He is also survived by his 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service to honor the life of Dr. Robert “Bob” Serros will be held on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church located at 4535 Anderson Road.

Published in:

Orlando Sentinel

from March 2, 2025