Macon Robert Ballantine Jr.

He always believed in working for what he earned and one of his first jobs was as a stock handler at General Motors here in Jacksonville, FL, prior to enlisting in the US Navy. Bob served our country honorably in the US Navy during World War II in the Asiatic Pacific aboard several naval vessels including the USS Intrepid (CV 11) aircraft carrier; USS Antietam (CV 36); USS LST 45 and the USS Cimmeron (A0 22). He was Honorably Discharged on October 10, 1947. He was awarded several citations and the Victory Medal for WW II.

Known to family, friends and many as “Bob” and “PaPa”, he worked for AT&T Long Lines Department and retired after 37 years. During his tenure at AT&T, he served as the liaison between NASA and worldwide communication companies using AT&T's communications network. In fact, he worked on such projects from the early days of space travel (the Mercury Program) until the Challenger disaster. Because of his work in the Long Lines Department, Bob relied on clear, concrete information, used common sense and created practical, fact based solutions.

Bob joined Riverside Masonic Lodge F&AM in 1953. He achieved the 32nd degree within the Scottish Rite, where he was a perpetual member. During 1960, Bob became a member of Morocco Shrine Temple, serving as a member of the Oriental Band uniformed unit. In 1989, Bob was elected as the Illustrious Potentate of Morocco Shrine Temple.

Bob loved his family and was a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather. “PaPa” was loved by all and enjoyed playing golf. He was a member at Hyde Park Golf Course and was more than an “avid golfer” – he was good! After retirement, he could often be located at his “office” - the golf course enjoying himself in the open air with friends and swinging clubs.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marilyn Ballantine and sons, John R. (Danese) and David B. (Janet). “PaPa” has 4 grandchildren: Jodi B. Borges, Jason R. Ballantine, Jessica B. Bradshaw and M. Robert Ballantine III and 5 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, a donation maybe made to the Morocco Patient Transportation Fund in memory of PP Bob Ballantine, Jr. at the Morocco Shrine, 3800 St. Johns Bluff Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32224.

The family will receive friends and loved ones for a visitation on Thursday, October 8 at 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. On Friday, October 9, attendees are invited to a luncheon at 1:00 pm prior to a 2:00 pm funeral service at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church, 4758 Shelby Avenue, with Mother Nancy Suellau officiating. Following the funeral service, there will be a masonic interment at Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Hardage-Giddens Town and Country Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205 (904) 781-9262 www.townandcountryfuneralhome.com.