Robert E. Curtis, a cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his devoted family June 18, 2025. Born Sept. 25, 1933, in Bayonne, Robert lived a full and vibrant life before moving to Port Monmouth with his family.
Robert’s life was one of dedication and love, beginning with his nearly 71-year marriage to his childhood sweetheart, Cecelia Curtis. Together, they raised a beautiful family, including two daughters, Donna and Mary Ellen, and mourned the loss of their son Christopher in 2017. Robert’s family was the cornerstone of his life, and he took immense pride in his six grandchildren, Amber (Vinnie), Chelsea (Jose), Sean, Kaytlin, Marcy (Mike) and Natalie (Nick), as well as his seven great-grandchildren, Jacklyn, Chase, Jake, Jaden, Collin, Harlan and Lily.
Robert’s work as an electrician for the Bayonne Board of Education spanned many years, where he was known for his reliability and skill. His commitment to his craft was only matched by his involvement in his community, where he was a life member of the Atlas Yacht Club and affectionately known as the King of the Long Docks in Bayonne.
An avid boater, Robert’s love for the water was only surpassed by his great sense of humor and his reputation as quite the jokester. He was a man who embraced life with a smile and a laugh, always ready to share a funny story, a clever quip or a song. Robert was also deeply proud of his Irish heritage, a pride that was reflected in his everyday life and the joy he took in his cultural roots. He marched every year in the Bayonne St. Patrick’s Day parade.
His daily rituals were a testament to the simple pleasures he cherished. Robert could often be found reading the Jersey Journal and the New York Post, keeping up with current events. Evenings would find him tuned in to his favorite game shows, “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” after enjoying a meal with his family. And true to his easy-going nature, he often relaxed with a Coors Light or a glass of blackberry brandy in hand.
Robert was the embodiment of the words “funny, kind and handy.” He could fix almost anything, and his ability to solve problems was as much a part of his character as his quick wit and generous spirit. His presence brought light and laughter to those around him, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.
Robert is survived by his loving wife, Cecelia; his daughters, Donna and Mary Ellen; his brother Thomas Curtis; and his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a community of friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his son Christopher; his brothers, Christopher, Timothy, Francis and Jackie; and his sister Eileen Kaczka.
Robert E. Curtis lived a life marked by joy, laughter and an unwavering commitment to his family. As they say “so long” to this resilient and remarkable man, the family celebrates the legacy he leaves behind – a legacy of love, humor and the enduring strength of family. A memorial gathering and service were held June 24 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, Belford.
The article originally appeared in the June 26 – July 2, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
