Robert "Bobby" Wilson

Robert L. Wilson (a.k.a. Harding Stedler), of Maumelle, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, April 27, 2022. Bob was born July 17, 1939, in Weatherford Township, Ohio located just north of Marietta, Ohio. He was 83 years young. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Louis H. and Catherine Wilson, his wife Hilda, and his aunt Lucille Miller.

Bob Wilson graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Kent State University and a Master’s degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati. After teaching at the secondary level, he traveled to Tallahassee, Florida to obtain his Doctorate of Philosophy from Florida State University.

Bob taught school at the secondary level from 1961-1974 and was a high school principal prior to moving on to teach at the college level at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida and Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio. His infectious cheerful outlook motivated so many to pursue their dreams; to be bold and become the absolute best at what they choose to do. Bob made a positive impact in the lives of so many throughout his professional career. He absolutely loved people!

Bob is an award-winning writer, musician, and actor. He has published seven books of poetry inspired by his life experiences, mostly by the people he met along the way. He especially loved his time with the aspiring Arkansas Phoenix Writers. He loved to be immersed in the beauty of his natural surroundings no matter how simple. He simply made the most out of every circumstance that came his way. Simply stated, Bob loved life!

Bob married the love of his life, Hilda, September 15, 1967. They were married for 34 years before her death November 18, 2001. Bob was overflowing with joy with the birth of his son Scott June 17, 1970, and was so happy, blessed, and proud of his beautiful grandchildren Lauren and Matthew. They brought him so much joy throughout their many adventures and escapades. Bob was quite the jokester around his grandchildren! Bob was blessed to be a part of the Mayflower United Methodist Church since moving to Maumelle in 1996. He loved God and he developed lasting friendships within this faith-filled community. It has been a life well lived.

Bob is survived by his loving son, Scott; his wonderful grandchildren Lauren and Matthew; his cousin Peggy Wilkinson; and his many wonderful friends.

The family would like to express their eternal gratitude to the nurses and professionals with Arkansas Hospice who provided loving and compassionate care to Bob. Please know that Bob loved you all. The Family ask that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Bob Wilson to the Arkansas Hospice Foundation at https://care.arkansashospice.org/give/385643/#!/donation/checkout .

His life celebration and service will be this Tuesday May 3^rd at Mayflower United Methodist Church located at Miller Street, Mayflower, AR 72106. Lunch and gathering will begin at 12 noon with visitation at 1 pm and funeral services at 2 pm followed by a gravesite service at Riverwood Memorial Gardens Cemetery located at 301 Carnahan Drive, Maumelle, Arkansas 72113. All are welcome.