Robert Kendall "Bob" Hammersley

Efland, NC - Robert (Bob) Kendall Hammersley, 70, passed away on January 3, 2025 after a brief, but courageous, battle with cancer.
Bob was born in Arlington County, Virginia. A resident of Northern Virginia for nearly his entire life, he was a proud Virginian. Bob was a graduate of Hayfield High School. His passion for cars led him to pursue a career in the automobile industry, last serving as Service Manager of BMW of Alexandria, before retiring in 2020. Bob took great pride in taking care of many customers over the years, treating them as he would his family. He was known for his signature bow-tie and "lab coat".
While his love of cars and racing filled much of his free time, the center of his life was his family. Growing up in Lorton, VA, Bob met his wife of 46 years, Sandra Bailey Hammersley, in elementary school. Together they built a wonderful life together, full of many adventures. Bob had two children, of whom he was immensely proud; his daughter Erin Hammersley Lane (Charles) of Efland, NC and his daughter Caitlin Hammersley Dryden (Zach) of Vienna, VA. Despite his busy work schedule, Bob never missed any of his children's activities and was a proud "swim parent" for many years. In recent years, Bob became a grandfather to three, and soon-to-be four, grandchildren whom he enjoyed immensely (Camden Lane, Vivian Reese Lane, Quinn Dryden, and Baby Boy Dryden). The chaos of young children in his home brought him much joy and laughter, even in his final days.
Bob was the oldest of two children born to Stewart and Carolyn Hammersley, both of whom preceded him in death. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by his younger brother, Edward Keith Hammersley (Cathy), his nephew (Kyle), and niece (Emma). He had very fond memories of annual trips to the North Carolina and Virginia beaches with his brother and family.
Bob had strong morals that guided his everyday life. If you ever needed help or support, Bob would be there - his greatest gift was giving. He invested in people and loved connecting with others. Because of this, there are many friends whom he considered family. These people made a significant impact on his life, and that of his immediate family. He had cherished friendships from childhood that were still very meaningful in his adult life.
Bob will be missed by all that knew his kind and generous heart. An informal celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2025 from 2-4 PM at The Colonial Inn in Hillsborough, NC (153 W King St, Hillsborough, NC 27278).
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: Duke Friends of Nursing Greatest Need or Orange County North Carolina Emergency Services - General Support Fund.