Robert Andre Hearn

Robert Andre Hearn, Jr., known lovingly as Bob—and to many in the running community as 'Ultra-Bob'—passed away unexpectedly at his home of natural causes. His sudden departure leaves an immeasurable void but his steady presence, sharp mind and enduring love remain woven into the lives of all who knew him.

Born on December 1st 1947, in Nashville, Tennessee, Bob was the son of Robert Andre Hearn, Sr. and Virginia Bruer Hearn. From an early age, he stood out as both thoughtful and spirited—serious about his studies yet always ready with a well-timed prank. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, reflecting a lifelong commitment to discipline, faith and service. He served as chaplain of his high school fraternity at Hillsboro High School, graduating in 1965.

He moved to Atlanta to attend Georgia Tech, pursuing multiple degrees in physics with characteristic determination. A self-made man from the start, Bob paid his own way through college, working at the nuclear reactor on campus while also playing bass guitar in an R&B band. Music was one of his earliest passions and he performed at The Royal Peacock on Auburn Avenue—an accomplishment he carried with quiet pride. As a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, he formed lifelong bonds and was considered a brother by many.

In 1967, Bob became reacquainted with his childhood friend, Cinda Bratton, whom he first met years earlier when she was seven and he was nine while both were on the swim team at Brentwood Country Club. That rekindled friendship grew into a love story that defined his life. They married in 1969 and built a life grounded in faith, perseverance and unwavering devotion. Bob was a deeply loyal husband, cherishing Cinda not only as his partner but as his closest friend.

Two years later, they welcomed their daughter, Trish, followed by their sons, Trey and Trent. As a father, Bob led by example—steady, principled and encouraging curiosity and resilience. His children knew him as a constant source of wisdom, humor and strength. He was steadfast in his love, present in both the everyday and the extraordinary moments.

Bob's mind was endlessly curious. Like Einstein, he was fascinated by the world and the miracles within it. He saw wonder in science, nature, technology and in the intricate design of life itself. He had a deep passion for living fully and exploring the world— through intellectual discovery, meaningful conversation, world travels or quiet reflection by the river. He loved God, his family and his country with conviction and gratitude. His faith guided his actions throughout his life.

The Hearn family first settled in Roswell and joined Roswell United Methodist Church. They formed family friendships that endured for decades. In 1982, they moved to their home along the Chattahoochee River, a replica of Beauvoir, Jefferson Davis' last home. The river became Bob's sanctuary. He spent countless days on or near it, savoring the calm strength of the water. It was there he found peace, perspective and joy.

Running became another defining chapter of his life. Though he humbly claimed he wasn't fast, Bob embodied endurance, logging steady miles along the riverbanks he loved. He ran his first marathon in Nashville in 2005 at age 58 and, between 2008 and 2017, completed 29 more across 26 states. During those years, he also finished several ultra-marathons, including the JFK 50-Miler five times and the 56-mile Comrades Marathon in South Africa three times—earning the nickname "Ultra-Bob." In 2012, after Comrades, he summited Mt. Kilimanjaro. At 70, he ran his final marathon in Athens, Greece, the birthplace of the race. Running reflected his philosophy: perseverance over speed and finishing what you start.

Professionally, Bob's career as a nuclear physicist was marked by vision and innovation. He served as EVP at Applied Physical Technologies before founding Atlan-Tech, Inc. in 1983. His company provided internal dosimetry services utilizing advanced whole-body counting (WBC) technology that he helped develop, to detect and quantify radioactive materials within the human body. His work advanced safety standards and protected countless individuals in the nuclear industry. He later spent more than 25 years as Chief Radiation Physicist at Theragenics Corporation, applying his deep expertise and steadfast integrity to advancing care and improving outcomes for cancer patients.

Bob was a loyal husband, a steadfast father, a devoted brother and a faithful friend to many. He was selfless and compassionate, always ready to help someone in need—offering encouragement, counsel or practical support without hesitation. His support of organizations like NAMI reflected his deep compassion and commitment to helping others. Even in his final days, he placed the needs of those around him above his own. Those who knew Bob will remember his quiet brilliance, dry wit, playful spirit, optimism and calm, grounding presence. He did not seek the spotlight; he simply showed up—again and again—for the people and principles he loved.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Trish [Glenn]; his sons, Trey and Trent; and his sister, Laura Hearn, for whom he had great love and respect. He also leaves behind Cinda's siblings—whom he considered brothers and sisters of his own—Bo, Sam, Butch [Teresa], Sally [Garry] and many nieces and nephews - Kate, Jonathan, Kristin, Robert, Lauren, Sam, Connor and Kayla.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cinda and his parents. A Celebration of Life will be held later this year, with details to be shared with family and friends. Please consider honoring Bob's compassionate heart by being a good person and giving your time in service to others.

Bob's life was defined not by speed but by faithfulness and optimism. Like the river he cherished, he lived with steady purpose—quietly strong, deeply rooted and a source of life and strength to those around him. His legacy of loyalty, curiosity, endurance and love will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.