Robert Lawson Moseley

Col (Ret) Robert Lawson Moseley “Bob” passed away on Sunday, May 4th at his home with his beloved sons and wife at his side. Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and Christian – a true officer and a gentleman who believed in doing the right thing. Bob was born April 1, 1933, in Savannah, Georgia, but as a child moved to Greenville, South Carolina where he graduated from Greenville High School. Bob enrolled at Clemson University, but after one year, he enlisted in the US Army later graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi with honors.

The US Army became Bob’s home where he quickly excelled. He was accepted into Officer training school and was promoted to Lieutenant. Shortly thereafter, Bob married the love of his life, Ellen. Bob and Ellen recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. Bob’s military career spanned 20 years including one tour in Korea and two tours in Vietnam. He served in the 82nd Airborne and became a fixed wing and decorated combat helicopter pilot to include serving as Executive Officer and Deputy Commander of the 501st assault helicopter company. He was attributed with over 200 hours of combat flying time and volunteered to fly the most dangerous and demanding combat assault missions. Major Moseley was shot down in hostile territory and successfully prepared the aircraft for recovery without casualty. Bob’s final military assignment was at Fort Jackson, SC where he commanded a Basic Combat Training Battalion. Bob retired at the age of 42 in 1975 as a full colonel.

Bob started his second career in Bristol, Tennessee joining Campbell Enterprises as a General Manager of Campbell Chrysler Dodge Jeep and then began a career in commercial real estate with CBL & Associates. Although starting in management, he quickly progressed to retail leasing and development. He ended his career with Plaza Associates and retired in Raleigh, NC.

He is survived by his wife Ellen Speegle Moseley, son Robert Lawson Moseley, Jr (Rhonda); son, William K. Moseley (Sullivan); granddaughter Lauren Elise Moseley; grandson Robert Lawson Moseley III; sister Malinda Moseley Epps (Steve); and sister, Maranda Moseley Street (Tom). He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jerry Moseley, sister, Virginia Hall.

The family is thankful for the loving care that Bob received during his final days from Billy Hauber, Jill Hamilton, Ansuya Carrol and Transitions Hospice Care of Wake County (especially Jenn). In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to be made online NorthstarVA.org or mailed to NorthstarVA,11501 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen VA 23509. Northstar Academy and Career Center is a non-profit school for students with disabilities.

A graveside service will be on Friday May 9th, at 1:00 p.m. at Parklawn Cemetery in Hampton VA.