Robert Whitney Jennison

Robert Whitney Jennison, 69, of Coventry, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband to Maryann (Rankin) Jennison for over 37 years, and father to Robby Jr. and Timmy, Rob lived a life filled with adventure, laughter, and love.
Born in Hartford, CT, on July 15, 1955, a loving son to the late Whitney and Mary Jean (Sue) Lowe Jennison, Rob grew up in Canton, CT, graduating from Canton High School in 1974. There he developed an aptitude for all things mechanical, and a passion for cars and music.
In his early years, Rob embraced his free-spirited nature, chasing waves from Nantucket to California, where he surfed the Pacific and found himself briefly calling Hawaii home. These adventures were just the beginning of his lifelong quest to explore, create, and enjoy life to the fullest.
When he returned to the East Coast, his greatest adventure began in 1985, when he met Maryann, the love of his life. The two were married on August 8, 1987, and built a beautiful life together in Coventry, raising their sons. Their home was filled with warmth, joy, and was the heart of countless family gatherings and celebrations.
Rob's passions extended beyond his work as owner of United Blackboard & Specialties. He was an avid car enthusiast, proudly showcasing his prized 1935 Ford Woodie Station Wagon at car shows throughout New England. He enjoyed the beaches of Nantucket and boating in Rhode Island and on the lakes in Vermont.
Above all, Rob's greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, a loyal brother, and a true friend to many. His kindness, love, and perspective on life left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on through the lessons he taught and the many wonderful memories he leaves behind.
Rob leaves behind his beloved wife, Maryann; his sons, Robert Whitney Jennison Jr. and his wife Jeanne of Denver, CO, and Timothy Ryan Jennison and his wife Victoria of Neptune, NJ. He is also survived by his siblings, twin brother Richard Jennison and his partner Sara Perri of Flemington, NJ; Thomas Jennison and his wife Lucy of Pawleys Island, SC; Anne LeMaitre and her husband Dan of Nantucket, MA; and Edward Jennison and his wife Jackie of Nantucket, MA.
He will be deeply missed by his mother-in-law, Ann Rankin of Enfield, and his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Theodore Rankin and his wife Karen of South Windsor, James Rankin and his wife Linda of Enfield, and Daniel Rankin and his wife Lori of Winterville, NC. Rob was also a cherished uncle, godfather and friend to many.
Family and friends are invited to gather in his memory on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m., at the Samsel & Carmon Funeral Home, 419 Buckland Rd., South Windsor, CT. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 3:30 p.m.
"Then, as it was, then again it will be. And though the course may change sometimes, rivers always reach the sea."