Captain Robert Darley

In loving memory of Captain Robert Darley, a respected Merchant Marine, Mason, loving family man, and lifelong enthusiast of the sea's vast opportunities. Born on December 1, 1935, Bonifay, FL to Mamie and Robert A Darley, Robert's life was an adventurous voyage that came to a close on March 25, 2025, in Old Bridge, NJ.
Robert was the steadfast captain of his family, charting a course of love and dedication. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dorothy Darley, together they embarked on life's long journey, their legacy of love is carried on through their sons, Robert A. Darley and George Darley (Lisa)-who shared in Robert's deep sense of kinship-and his grandchildren Robert M. Darley, Robert McCann, Christopher Webster, Casey Darley, and Jesilyn Reyes-Darley. The light of his wisdom and joy will continue to shine brightly in his great-grandchildren Charlie Wilson, James, Christopher, John, Michael, and Mary. Preceding him in death were his dear son Charles D. Darley, his parents, his brother Milburn Darley, and his sisters Pauline Harvey and Johnnie Gaskins. Each of them held a special place in his heart and stories.
Above all, Jesus was the guiding light through out his life. Robert was a faithful and devoted believer in Jesus Christ and his love for God encompassed everything he did.
Robert's life was as vast as the ocean he cherished. Following in the wake of his father, he set sail on his first voyage at the tender age of sixteen, marking the beginning of an impressive career with the Merchant Marine. With the salt air as his constant companion, he rose through the ranks, demonstrating an unwavering commitment and respect for the sea that propelled him to the helm as Captain and East Coast Vice President of the International Organization Masters, Mates & Pilots. Robert retired in 2000 at the age of 65 but the rhythms of the sea continued to reverberate in his soul until his last days.
Robert's passions were family, friends and shipmates. Robert was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge, Matawan, NJ. An avid Civil War buff, he harbored a profound appreciation for history, often sharing tales and anecdotes with his children and grandchildren. His favorite pastimes included fishing, supporting his beloved NY Giants, and listening to country music, particularly his favorite, Hank Williams Jr. He held a deep respect for the tranquility of a simple walk and enjoyed the camaraderie of family gatherings. His hardworking, caring, loving, and generous nature established him as a pillar of strength and warmth to all who had the honor of crossing his path.
As we bid farewell to Captain Robert Darley, we honor him by recalling the gentle waves of his kindness and the strong currents of his love. His life was a journey well-sailed, an odyssey of dedication to his family and his craft. Sail on, dear Captain, into the tranquil waters of eternity, your life's voyage a true inspiration to us all.
A Visitation for Robert will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm and 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Waitt Funeral Home, 501 HWY 79, Morganville, NJ 07751.
A Final Gathering will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 9:30am to 10:30am at Waitt Funeral Home, followed by entombment at Holmdel Cemetery and Mausoleum, 900 Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733.
In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to StopAFib. Donations can be made through the following link: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/Z74aUQ?vid=1ii09g To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Captain Robert, please visit our floral store.