Robert Burke Herring ’45

Robert Burke Herring passed away on February 26, 2015. Bob was born in Rose Hill to Mr. and Mrs. Dallas Burke (Lulu Southerland) Herring on May 19, 1924, and lived in Rose Hill most of his life. He graduated from Rose Hill High School and UNC Chapel Hill. He served his country in the U. S. Marines in World War II and the Korean War. Bob opened Herring Supply Company as contractor for many building projects (including the restoration of Liberty Hall in Kenansville).

He later worked for Equitable Insurance until he established Herring Woodworks, a craft and furniture-making operation, at his beloved Rock Fish Meadows-6 miles from town. He and Ann founded Rock Fish Meadows Christian Camp and Conference Center, with the help of family and local folks who shared his vision.

After 25 years of retreats and Bible studies, the focus of RFM turned toward youth. Always passionate for making a difference to better this world through Christian service and the love of Christ Jesus, Bob initiated the ministry’s summer youth camp, still in operation under the direction of grandson James Guthrie. He taught Bible studies and Sunday school, directed the choir, and often performed solos. He was involved in various community service organizations and school boards.

Bob’s siblings are Annie Louise Ward (his “big” sister, age 102), twins William Dallas Herring and Sue Saunders (both deceased), Rachel Hood (also deceased) and Clayton Herring Sr. (The day before he died, Annie Louise, Clayton, and Bob made their routine morning calls to each other.)

Bob is survived by two children—Peggy Guthrie (M.D. Guthrie) of Rose Hill, and Burke Herring (Ginny Murphy) of Danville, VA; seven grandchildren—James Guthrie (Dorian), Hope Guthrie Smith (Kevin), Mark Guthrie, Gloria Guthrie Haines (James), Robert Herring (Jennifer), Laura Beth Trammell (Jerry Lee “Bobo”), and Carolyn Herring; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

After a morning private burial, there will be a memorial service at 2:00 at Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church in Rose Hill on Saturday, February 28. Visitation will be in the fellowship hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Rock Fish Meadows, PO Box 100, Rose Hill, NC 28458.