Robert McLean Baucom

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Robert McLean Baucom of Hillsborough, NC, who left us peacefully on September 22, 2024 after a heroic 21-year battle with cancer.
Bob was born to parents Dorothy and Clifford Baucom on April 7, 1945, in Durham, NC. From a young age, Bob exhibited a strong sense of duty and patriotism, leading him to serve his country with honor and distinction. He served during the Vietnam War as a member of the esteemed 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne). Bob dedicated his life to protecting the freedoms we hold dear, serving in the Army for 21 years as an instructor helicopter pilot and earning numerous commendations for his bravery and leadership. After retiring from the military, Bob continued his love of flying helicopters offshore in Louisiana.
Diagnosed in 2003 with multiple myeloma, Bob was a pillar of strength and resilience, facing his illness with the same determination and grace that characterized his military service. He was a lifelong learner who loved teaching others to fly. He had a brilliant mind and an extensive library that covered a broad subject base. Bob also loved crossword puzzles, fishing, riding motorcycles, and spending time in the kitchen. He was a member of the Mensa Society and a brother of the Freemasons. He will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, loving heart, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him.
Bob is survived by his loving family: his fiancé Susan James; his children, Susan Alexander (Neal), Stephanie Cotter (Brian), Dean Mitchell, Pratt McHenry (Misty), and Kirk McHenry (Ashley); his grandchildren, Jake, Kate, Jack, Cole, Peyton, Ava, and Davis; his siblings Bill Baucom (Ann), Betty Beard, John Baucom (Donna Medlin), and Peggy Baucom (John Bianco), and many dear friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his second wife, Laura Baucom.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 19, at 12:30 p.m. at St Mary's Chapel in Hillsborough, NC, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (themmrf.org), P.O. Box 414238, Boston, MA 02241-4238.
Bob's legacy of courage, love, and service will live on in our hearts forever.