Robert W. Dalrymple

Robert W. Dalrymple, "Bob," passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 12, 2017.  A Memorial service will be held at 2:00pm Thursday at Salem Presbyterian Church. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery.

Bob was born on June 16, 1922 to Clyde and Eunice Dalrymple at the family home. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, William C. Dalrymple, and his wife of 63 years, Nannie Lou McFarland Dalrymple. Bob is survived by his daughter, Robbie, her husband, Billy and son, Scott; son, Tommy, his wife, Amy and their children, Robert, Catherine, Matthew and Jenni. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Berke Howard of Portsmouth, Virginia and sister-in-law, Lee Dalrymple of Sanford.

Bob was a 1943 graduate of North Carolina State College and was immediately commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. Bob fought valiantly for his country in the Pacific Theater, where he earned a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. After an honorable discharge, he returned home to manage the farm. Bob continued to serve others as a two-term legislator in the North Carolina House of Representatives, member and Chair of the Lee County School Board for over two decades, Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor and C.C.C.C. Trustee. Bob was a life-long member of Salem Presbyterian, where he was Clerk to the Session for 50 years, delegate to the Presbyterian Assembly and Elder Emeritus. He was a charter member of the Broadway Lion's Club and board member of the Carolina Bank, then later B.B.&T. 

Through the years, Bob could often be found talking with farmers, soldiers, educators, bankers, ministers and candidates. You could always count on good stories and wise advice from time spent with him. Bob set the standard for husband, father, father-in-law, brother, uncle and, most of all, Papa. He never met a stranger and practiced his faith with humility and a servant's heart. Bob made those around him always feel cherished, understood and appreciated. 

The family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall following the service.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Salem Presbyterian Church, 3554 Avents Ferry Rd, Sanford, NC 27330; Community Home Care & Hospice, 1836 Doctors Dr, Sanford, NC 27330; or a charity of your choice.