Mr. Robert Eugene Bliss, Sr., 88, of Hickory, passed away after a period of declining health on Thursday, October 12, 2023.
Robert was born March 27, 1935, in Guilford County, to the late Frances Louise Craven. A well rounded and accomplished gentleman, Robert graduated from Hildebran High School in 1954. He served honorably in the United States Army before attending Wingate Junior College where he was named a Junior College All-American basketball player. Robert received his undergraduate from Appalachian State in 1962. He began his teaching career and earned his Master’s in 1982 from Gardner-Webb. Robert taught many years for George Hildebran High School, Hildebran High School as well as East Burke High School. He was well known and highly regarded as a coach having had the privilege of coaching; basketball, baseball, golf, cross-country and football having been awarded Conference Coach of the Year many years throughout his coaching career.
He was a member of Waldensian Presbyterian Church, American Legion, The Moose Lodge and the North Carolina High School Athletic Association.
In addition to his mother, Robert is preceded in passing by his brother, Milton Bliss.
Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Robert Eugene Bliss, Jr. and wife, Julie; daughter, Leigh Ann Bliss; grandchildren, Alexandra Black, David Black, Robert Eugene Bliss III and Brianna Bliss; and special friend, Gwen Thompson.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, October 17, 2023 in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service at 6:00 P.M officiated by Dr. Marty Jacumin.
Family will receive friends prior to the service on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for memorial contributions to be sent to Hildebran Heritage Museum, PO Box 1547, Hildebran, NC 28637.
Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is assisting the Bliss family.
So, so sorry. He leaves a wonderful legacy for his family. Sending lots of love and prayers for your family.
I have very fond memories of Coach Bliss during my years at East Burke. May you forever rest in peace Coach!
I am a big fan of Coach! He left me with many memories. Peace to family and friends in the name of Robert , aka ā Coach Bliss!ā
Sad to see the passing of Coach Bliss! He made a positive impact on many athletes and students.
So sorry for your loss. Had him as a teacher at EB. Praying for the family.
Prayers for his loved ones. He’s remembered by a lot of
people. Vernon Stilwell
So sorry to the family. Well loved and so respected by so many East Burke kids.
Sorry to see the passing of our friend Bob.
So sorry to hear of his passing. I have so many memories of him at Hildebran High and the many words of wisdom he told his students which matter to
This day. My heartfelt prayers to
His family, friends and players who
Loved him .
No one better! I owe so much to Coach He was a great coach and friend! Really gonna miss him ! RIP Coach!!
Love him so much. Iām going to miss out visits
Prayers for the family. One of my favorite coaches. I still tell Coach Bliss stories to this day.
Great American – dedicated coach and teacher.
Rick and Bonnie Sherrill
Prayers for Robbie & Leigh Anne. What a legacy!! This man touched many lives. I remember vividly playing tennis with him at EBHS!! Great teacher and he truly cared!! Job well done coach!!
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We are so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing, Bob was a good friend of mine. Our thoughts and prayers to the family.
Rest peacefully, Coach Bliss. Thoughts and prayers for the family.
Leigh Ann and Rob, I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. After Little League he was my Coach each year all the way through high school. If you played for him, you played the game like it should be played. I’m glad I had a chance to talk to him just a few weeks ago at Cambridge House. He gave much of his life developing ball players and making a difference in the lives of kids in Burke County. Thank you Coach!
Leigh Ann and Rob, so sorry for your loss. My God’s peace and love surround you during this time and always. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Leigh Ann and Rob,
Coach was a good friend of my late husband, Jerry Abernathy. He had a lot of good memories about your dad. May God bless you and give you peace.
What a fine man! Enjoyed many good days on the golf course with Coach Bliss and Danny Williams his good friend. RIP “Robert”. My condolences to all the Family.