Robert Lloyd Gordon, age 75, of Springfield, Arkansas, went to Fiddler’s Green on September 19, 2018. Born May 9, 1943, in Little Rock, Arkansas, he graduated from Catholic High School and received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Maryland in 1979.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Jean Marie Stevenson Healey and Dr. Robert Lane Gordon. He is survived by daughters Katherine Barcham and husband Mark, and Heather Gordon, all of Wellington, New Zealand. He is also survived by his siblings Mary M. Healey of Ajijic, Mexico; Becky McMath and husband Bruce, and John J. Healey II and wife Betty, all of Little Rock; Richard Gordon and wife Trish, and Paul Gordon and wife Diana, all of Virginia Beach, VA; Caroline Wilkerson and husband Alan of Fairfax Station, VA; and a host of nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews.
During 16 ½ years’ service in the U.S. Army as a medic, Bob attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and was deployed in Vietnam, Korea, and Germany. Bob served in the 1-7 Cavalry Regiment, Garry Owen, 1st Cavalry Division in the Battle of Ia Drang, the first major U.S. engagement in Vietnam. In addition to service awards, Bob was awarded a Combat Medic Badge, a Purple Heart, an Air Medal, and a Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. Being a medic in heavy combat in Vietnam left a deep, scarring effect on him. For the rest of his life, he struggled with the legacy of war’s sacrifice.
Bob had the good fortune to see much of the world. In addition to his military tours in Asia and Europe, he lived in Asmara, Ethiopia, for a year during high school while his father was posted to the U.S. Embassy. He also later lived in New Zealand for many years, where he worked in bookkeeping.
Bob was a voracious reader with an amazing mind. When younger he remembered all he read, frequently quoting Shakespeare, poetry, and especially history. He was a caring soul and particularly loved all animals. Returning to Arkansas, he bought land near Springfield where he raised crops and tended to his many animals
His family wishes to thank Bob Collard, of Bee Branch, AR, for the many, many years of friendship and support. At Bob’s request, no memorial will be held, and his ashes will be scattered on his farm.
Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400
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