Robert J. "Bob" Yarbrough

Robert J. Yarbrough (1935 – 2026)

TITUSVILLE, FL – Robert J. "Bob" Yarbrough, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and retired NASA executive, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at the age of 90.

Born "Bobby Joe" on November 22, 1935, in Boaz, Alabama, Bob was the eldest son of six children born to the late Willie Lee and Ruby Jewel Yarbrough. A man of immense determination and service, Bob proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine during the Korean War.

Bob's professional legacy was intertwined with the American space program. He dedicated 30 years to NASA, serving at Johnson Space Center and Marshall Space Center before spending the majority of his career at Kennedy Space Center. He reached the pinnacle of his career serving as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for NASA at Kennedy Space Center, retiring in 1995.

His retirement was as active as his career. Driven by a lifelong love of learning, Bob audited his math curriculum at BCC Cocoa (now Eastern Florida State College) and spent the next 25 years volunteering as a math tutor at both the college and Astronaut High School. An avid athlete, Bob was an accomplished golfer and a dedicated marathon runner who completed the prestigious Boston Marathon six times.

Bob's greatest joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his wife and "everything" of nearly 50 years, Suzanne Yarbrough; his children, Greg (Kay) Yarbrough, Geoff Yarbrough (John Des Jardins), and Jennifer Yarbrough (Sebastian O'Brien). He also leaves behind his sister, Doloris Bartlett; brother, Wayne (Donna) Yarbrough; sisters-in-law, Sarah and Martha Yarbrough; four grandchildren, Robert (Sarah), Ryan, Caylin (Brett), and Cierra; and three great-grandchildren, Olin, Eli, and RJ.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Faye Collins, Marston Yarbrough, and Gary Yarbrough.

Bob will be remembered for his "true grit," his kindness, and his unwavering love for his family. A celebration of life will be held within the next few months to honor his remarkable journey.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Dementia Society: https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate