Robert Marshall Hooks

Hailing from Wadesboro, NC, a bedroom community not far from Charlotte and situated along the route to the beaches of SC, Bob embodied the quintessential spirit of a small-town dreamer. Despite being an only child following the loss of his infant brother, Bob's upbringing was rich with familial love and support. Raised by his devoted single mother, Daisy Ingram Hooks, Bob found solace and kinship within his extended family. William and Mary Hooks or Ma and PaPa, as they were affectionately called, helped shape Bob’s character imparting values of integrity and resilience. He formed a brotherhood of sorts with the late William (Billy) E. Hooks and a good-natured sparring relationship with his “sister-in-law”, the late, Patsy Hooks. Though estranged for a time, Bob reconciled with his natural father, Bonnie O’Dell Hooks, later in life, only to face the heartache of losing him to illness shortly thereafter. 

Bob's journey into adulthood began early when he married his high school sweetheart, Martha Ann Clark. Their connection weathered the challenges of military life, spanning continents as Martha's steadfast support empowered Bob to pursue his military and government career with unwavering determination, while she simultaneously nurtured their family and orchestrated their numerous relocations with grace and efficiency.

Enlisting in the Air Force at a very young age, Bob embarked on a distinguished military career marked by bravery and selflessness. Serving his country in Vietnam, he faced the horrors of war with courage, though the scars of battle would linger, impacting him deeply for the rest of his life. Despite his own struggles, Bob remained steadfast in his commitment to supporting fellow veterans, offering compassion and assistance to those who shared in his trauma.

Throughout his career, Bob’s dedication and leadership were evident as he rose to the highest enlisted rank, earning the title of "Chief" with pride. Along the way he graduated with two associate degrees and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland. Transitioning to a role in government service, he continued to excel, skillfully negotiating on behalf of his country in various international territories.

Retirement brought Bob the fulfillment of a lifelong dream - a peaceful lakeside home where he could enjoy the simple pleasures of fishing, boating, and companionship with lifelong best friends and family. Yet, his happiness was tempered by the loss of Martha to cancer in 2016, leaving a void that could never be filled. Bob's need for Martha was constant, and he spent his remaining years longing for her presence, finding solace in the memories of a devoted wife that tended to all his needs. 

Bob and Martha were members of Norwood First Baptist Church.

In his community, Bob was a servant leader, Commander of the Norwood VFW Post 6138 for many years. He had a commitment that embodied the values of camaraderie and solidarity that defined his life.

He is survived by Dr. Deborah Hooks-Ward and her husband Dr. Phillip Ward, Lisa Bevans and her husband Shawn Bevans (LtCol, Retired), and his son, Robert M. Hooks II (Rob). He is also survived by his granddaughters Alyssa Norris and Brooke Norris, his bonus-grandchildren Dr. Marshall Ward, his wife Dr. Andy Brandt Ward, Dr. Meredith Ward Dickson and her husband Erik Dickson. He is also survived by cousins, other family members, “military brothers and sisters”, many dear friends and neighbors. He also leaves behind his little Cairn Terrier that was his “good boy”. Jaime (his little terrier) came to him after his beloved Chihuahua Zoe(y) passed.

As we say our farewells to Robert Marshall Hooks, we acknowledge his life. May his memory linger as a reminder to all who knew him.