Robert Eugene Christopher

Robert Eugene Christopher, Sr., 85, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Born and raised in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Bob grew up alongside his high school sweetheart, Margaret Marshall. The two were married in 1960 while he attended the University of Tennessee, where he earned his degree in accounting. Bob lived and died a proud Tennessee Volunteer.

Between 1965 and 1967, Bob traveled to Bradenton to work six-week assignments for Tropicana. During those visits, the Florida lifestyle, warm weather, and beautiful Gulf waters captured his heart. In 1968, he and Margaret made Bradenton their permanent home, bringing with them their two young children, Connie and Bobby.

The family quickly formed lasting friendships, and Bob became deeply rooted in the community he loved. He was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where he served on the Guide Team and considered it a privilege to contribute his time and talents.

Bob played a significant role in shaping the Bradenton community. He assisted in the founding of St. Stephen's Episcopal School and the Bradenton Civic Center. He served as President of the Manatee Community Foundation from 2001 to 2003, was a Director of Goodwill, and contributed his expertise to the Citizens Financial Oversight Committee of the Manatee County School District, among many other civic roles.

In 1977, Bob and his partners, Rick Smith and Jim Gentile, founded the CPA firm Christopher, Smith, and Gentile. Through decades of dedicated service, the firm employed many professionals and served clients who often became lifelong friends. Bob continued caring for his clients and community until his passing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Clarence Christopher, and his younger brother, Edd Christopher.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Margaret Marshall Christopher; his daughter, Connie Gregory; his son, Robert Eugene Christopher, Jr. "Bob" (Rhonda) all of Palmetto, Florida; his cherished grandchildren: Christopher Mac Gregory; Colby Gregory (Brittany); Kaitlyn Kelly (Matt); Leah Weskamp (Brian); Robert Eugene Christopher III "Bobby" (Anja); and Phillip Christopher (Alexis). He is also survived by his beloved great-grandchildren: Karliee and Caroline Gregory; Sarah Kait, Emma Claire, and Grant Kelly; Banks Gregory; Hutton and Elizabeth Weskamp; Robert Eugene Christopher IV "Robin"; and Bennett Christopher; his sister-in-law, Sue Hannah Christopher; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Trinity United Methodist Church, 3200 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida, officiated by Reverend Dr. Robert S. Bledsoe and Reverend John Foulkrod. The family will host a reception following the service in Fellowship Hall.

Donations or gifts may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, Manatee Community Foundation or a charity of your choosing in honor of Bob Christopher.