Robert R Boyd

Robert Ralph Boyd (November 1, 1935- February 1, 2025 passed away in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at age 89 after a brief hospital stay surrounded by his loving family. Born in Peru, NY Bob was a graduate of the Crane School of Music at SUNY Postdam. He began his career in education teaching elementary school and continued on to becoming a high school band director in Rush Henrietta, NY as well as Principal at the Brockport Campus School, other accomplishments include grant writer for the Upstate NY Migrant Education Project working with migrant children, Goals for Youth with the NFL and most recently with the Pinellas County schools in Clearwater, Florida. Bob was incredibly proud of his connection with kids and touched countless lives.

In addition, Bob's career as a musician spanned over 70 years. Apart from being a high school band director by day, his nights were spent playing gigs all over Rochester, NY with The Roger Eckers Quartet recording 2 albums. He also wrote some of the most recognizable jingles for local businesses in Rochester as well as working as resident pianist and conductor for the East Rochester Dinner theater. After moving to Florida Bob continued his musical career with his own Band- The 42rd Street Big Band. He enjoyed playing piano for various touring artists. Among his favorites was Bernadette Peters, He loved to tell stories about the experience. Bob truly enjoyed his time as a Conductor with the Richy Community Orchestra, working with his dear friend and fellow musician Denise Issacson, however his favorite gig was sharing a stage with his son Bob Jr. His last gigs were shared with Bob Jr. at Little Room Jazz Club in Key West Florida.

Bob's connection with nature extended to running the farm in Canandaigua, producing a huge garden yearly. His desire to promote sustainability and longevity led to a career with Shaklee where he achieved Director status. Bob also had a love of the water and sailing. He achieved his dream of earning a Captains license, sailing the Caribbean delivering boats and sharing his love of sailing with his children. Bob spent the last years surrounded by his children, He loved to introduce his children by occupation, listing all their accomplishments. His positive influence and optimistic outlook were a source of inspiration to his children. He leaves behind a legacy demonstrating hard work and persistence above all else make dreams come true. Bob will also be remembered for the difference he made with his students and the impact on his fellow musicians. His pride in his children and a life well lived were reflected in his fondest saying. "I have lived a life beyond my wildest dreams"

Robert was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy Adelaide Sibley and Ralph Gordon Boyd, His brother James Boyd, The mothers of his children, Hazel Lenore Christian and Phyliss Aileen Bailey. He is survived by his children Robert Ralph Boyd JR (Maria), Shelly Batz (Paul), Lori Anne Kelly (Thomas) Nicole Betts (Ronnie), Kevin Boyd (Sarah), Shannon Bartholomew (Matthew) Grandchildren Paul ,Stephanie*, Melissa and Daniel Batz, Danielle and Reilly Boyd, Bailey and Ryan Bartholomew, Lindsay and Cody Betts. Great grandchildren Riley, Evelyn, Harlow, Weston, and Madeline

A private family celebration of life will be held at sea. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Richey Community Orchestra, P.O. Box 7356, Hudson, Florida 34674