Robert Joseph Hildebrand, Sr.

Robert Hildebrand Sr., 76, passed away on November 25, 2025, in Mount Holly, North Carolina. Born on June 16, 1949, in Dayton, Ohio, Robert lived a life marked by deep faith, dedicated service, and unwavering commitment to his family and community.

A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Robert served his country honorably for five years as a Lance Corporal during the Vietnam War. His military service was a testament to his courage and sense of duty—qualities that would continue to define him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Robert pursued higher education with distinction. He graduated with honors from Gaston College and later earned a degree from Western Piedmont Bible College. These academic achievements laid the foundation for his lifelong calling to ministry.

For over four decades, Robert devoted himself to pastoral work, faithfully serving as a pastor for 42 years across seven different churches. His ministry touched countless lives through his guidance, compassion, and steadfast devotion to his faith. His leadership left an enduring impact on the congregations he shepherded and the communities he served.

Robert’s greatest joy came from his family. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Nancy Hildebrand; son and daughter-in-law, Bobby and Angel Hildebrand, daughter and son-in-law, Tammy and Jim Dedmon; grandchildren Clarence and wife Jessica Taylor, Robert and wife Madison Hildebrand, John Hildebrand, Timothy Taylor, and JJ Gibson; and great-grandchildren Grayson and Jaxon Taylor, Kinslee and Bubba Hildebrand.

He is also remembered by his sisters Melanie and husband Tom Sortman, Chris Nicholson and husband Ray; brother-in-law Ray Lanier and wife Lucy, as well as many nieces and nephews who cherished their time with him.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents Hazel Henderson and Harvey Sharpe; brother Edward Hildebrand and wife Donna; sister Tonda Stover and husband Pete; and grandparents Harold and Berniece Holzen.

Throughout his life as a Marine, scholar, pastor, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, Robert embodied strength of character and depth of spirit. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched through both word and deed.

Receiving of friends will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM at First Freewill Baptist Church of Stanley, 402 Hovis Rd., Stanley, NC 28164, followed by the service at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions made to the First Freewill Baptist Church of Stanley. A private inurnment will be held at a later date at Salisbury National Cemetery.

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