Robert Ray Samuels

Robert R. Samuels, age 95, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026. Throughout his life, Bob dedicated himself to serving his family, country, state, and community with honor and integrity.

Bob was born on November 24, 1930, in High Point, North Carolina, to the late Albert Phillip Samuels and Jocie Leona Robinson Samuels. He was the youngest of twelve children and the last surviving sibling, affectionately known as the “baby” of the family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Jacqueline Moore Samuels; his three children, Karen (Daryl), Tim (Adriana), and Connie (Steve); his grandchildren, Brittany Coxe (Griffin), Madison Samuels, Jake Samuels (Jill), Christopher Boulton, and Jonathan Boulton; and his great-grandchildren, Perry, Bailey, and Leo Coxe.

Bob proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where he was a member of the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps. During his service, he frequently had the honor of playing Taps at Arlington National Cemetery, paying tribute to fellow service members with dignity and respect.

Following his military service, Bob began a distinguished career with the North Carolina Highway Patrol in 1954, serving first in Southern Pines, North Carolina. In 1967, he transferred to Mecklenburg County as a Corporal and was promoted to First Sergeant in 1974. After 31 years of dedicated service, he retired from the Highway Patrol. Bob considered it a privilege and honor to serve as a member of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, a role of which he remained deeply proud of throughout his life.

Bob continued his public service career as Chief Deputy of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Department under Sheriff C.W. Kidd, beginning in 1985. Following his tenure with the Sheriff's Department, he served as Sergeant-at-Arms for the North Carolina House of Representatives for 12 years, retiring at the age of 83.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was a devoted man of faith and family. He was a longtime member of Commonwealth United Methodist Church, where he was actively involved in the life of the church and especially loved singing in the choir. Blessed with a strong and beautiful voice, he often performed solos, and music remained one of his greatest passions throughout his life.

Bob was also an avid golfer and longtime member of The Carolina Golf Club, rarely passing up an opportunity to spend a day on the course. A loyal sports fan, he was an original Carolina Panthers PSL owner and enthusiastically supported the team from its inaugural season. He and Jackie also shared a love of travel and treasured the many friendships they cultivated over the years. They both enjoyed traveling, attending social gatherings, and simply spending time with family and friends.

Bob will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to service, his deep love for his family, his faith, and the example he set for others through a life well lived. His legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched and the family he loved so dearly.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28212. A funeral service will immediately follow.

Following the funeral service, family and friends are invited to gather at the Piper Glen Clubhouse, 4300 Piper Glen Drive, Charlotte, NC 28277.