Robert W. Drury

(November 1, 1939 – July 12, 2024)
Robert W. Drury, M.D., 84, of Glastonbury, Connecticut, husband of Jane (Genever) Drury, died peacefully at his home on July 12, 2024. He and his twin brother, Richard, were born on November 1, 1939 in St. Louis, Missouri, the sons of Robert L. Drury, M.D. and Elizabeth (Grafton) Drury. Bob lost his father when he was only six and he and Richard were raised by their humble and hard working mother. Bob had a modest upbringing, which taught him to value and appreciate the little things in life. It may have also been the reason why he chose to dedicate his life to helping others. Following his father's death in 1947, his family moved to Litchfield, Illinois. In 1952, his family moved again to West Palm Beach, Florida. Bob graduated from Palm Beach High School in 1957 and then enrolled at Duke University. He subsequently graduated from Duke University School of Medicine in 1964.
After graduating medical school, Bob completed his internship and residency at Hartford Hospital, where he met his loving wife, Jane. Bob loved Jane completely and he demonstrated his love by sharing all parts of his life with her. They were true companions. Bob's love for Jane was entirely earnest and his devotion was without end. Bob was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy Medical Corps and served two tours of duty in Vietnam while attached to the Seabees (Naval Construction Battalion). Bob was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant Commander in 1969 and he and Jane moved to Glastonbury where he began practicing as an Internal Medicine physician. Bob was an old school doctor who dedicated himself fully to his medical practice, and who took the time to get to know every one of his patients on a personal level. He was as concerned about his patients' emotions and overall well-being as he was about whatever symptoms or concerns may have brought them in to see him. He was a caregiver in the best sense of the word.
Bob was an avid reader and loved history. He also loved books. Lots and lots of books! Bob was curious and adventurous. He enjoyed running, golfing, skiing, and tennis. He was a hiker, a camper, and a sailor of small boats. He also loved dogs and was particularly fond of Labrador Retrievers. Bob was a proud Eagle Scout and an active member of the Glastonbury Rotary Club for fifty years. He was also a member of the South Congregational Church for more than fifty years and served on just about every committee there was. He encouraged his sons to experience the things he loved and hoped they would love them too. Bob was a giver. He valued speaking with his patients and friends and always had advice to share. He had an uncanny ability to connect with people and he influenced the lives of many.
Bob was quick to laugh, often making himself the punchline of his jokes. He had a quirky sense of humor and was fond of practical jokes. People who really knew him were always on guard for his mischief. Bob was also a person who encouraged manners and civility. He believed in courtesy and was truly chivalrous. Bob led a life of service to others, was devoted to his patients, and had a significant impact on the people who knew him. He is survived by his wife Jane and his sons: Stephen and wife, Heike, Christopher and wife, Heather, and Jonathan and wife, Jolie. Bob also had 5 grandchildren: Ryan, Paige, Nathaniel, Gideon, and Elijah.
Bob had a wonderful life and gave far more than he took. He left the world a better place than when he entered it.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to South Congregational Church or a charity of your choice in his honor. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at South Congregational Church, 949 Main St., South Glastonbury, CT 06073.