SAXTONS RIVER, Vt. – Robert J. Hewitt, 84, of Saxtons River, Vt., passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was born on April 20, 1939, in Luzerne, Pa., to Ernest and Geraldine (Grabsky) Hewitt. He married Jacqueline Jenkins on August 25, 1961, in Luzerne, and they remained together until her passing in May 2017.
Bob graduated from Luzerne High School, and went on to receive his teaching degree from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. After earning his degree, he taught high school in New Jersey, while also performing research at the pharmaceutical company Squibb, with the team that developed synthetic penicillin.
In 1968, he moved the family to Vermont, where he continued teaching science and photography at Vermont Academy, retiring in 2001. Bob spent his retirement years perfecting his self-taught woodworking skills, attending craft fairs in southern Vermont, and was always willing to strike up a conversation.
Affectionately known as “Doc,” he is survived by his three children and their families: Robert (Pamela) Hewitt of North Haven, Conn., Charles (Laura) Hewitt of Bellows Falls, Vt., and Patricia (James) Rumrill of Ludlow, Vt. He is also survived by six grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and three nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by his parents and his wife of 56 years, Jacqueline. A private service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Bob’s name to the Rockingham Free Public Library, 65 Westminster Street, Bellows Falls, Vt., 05101.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster Street in Bellows Falls, Vt.