Robert Larrie Hobson

Robert Larrie Hobson, 88, passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026, in Provo, Utah, surrounded by family.

Bob was born on January 11, 1938, to Howard Malcolm Hobson and Mildred Francis Mathisen. He was married to Delois "Lois" Jean Cash for 63 years. He lived a full and purposeful life, grounded in learning, faith, and a deep love for his family.

Bob was an honors graduate in physics from the Virginia Military Institute and later earned a PhD in nuclear science and engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic institute. His early military service included teaching physics at West Point Military Academy. He retired from the military as a Lt. Colonel. He spent most of his career working in the nuclear energy division at General Electric. Bob later became the first provost of Southern Virginia University, helping establish the academic foundation of the school in its early years.

Bob was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many roles over the years, including bishop, stake presidency counselor, and patriarch. He and his wife, Lois, served a mission together, and they later served at the Missionary Training Center in Provo – an experience he especially loved because of the chance to mentor and support missionaries one-on-one.

Family was at the center of Bob's life. He is survived by his children: Larrie Scott Hobson (Kay Lani), Shelly Lynn Mathie (David), Karla Ann Carter (Michael), and Donna Charise Christensen (Ted), as well as 21 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Delois "Lois" Jean Cash Hobson, and brother Ronald Howard Hobson.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 4, at 9:00 a.m. at Legacy Village of Provo, 4146 N. University Ave, Provo, Utah. A livestream option will be available at www.walkersanderson.com. Burial will take place at the Orem Cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Robert L. and Delois Cash Hobson scholarship at Southern Virginia University at https://give.svu.edu/campaign/765504/donate.

Alternatively, checks may be sent to Southern Virginia University, Hobson Scholarship, 1 University Hill Drive, Buena Vista, VA 24416.