Robert Langdon Obituary
Robert "Bobby" Eugene Langdon
May 3, 1935 - January 10, 2026
Benson, North Carolina - Benson, NC: Mr. Robert "Bobby" Eugene Langdon, aged 90 of NC Hwy 50 passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield surrounded by his loving wife and family. Mr. Langdon was an only child born on May 3, 1935, in Johnston County to the late Jack and Hermie Cleo Barbour Langdon.
As a lifelong resident of Johnston County, he was a successful businessman, founding and operating several businesses simultaneously. Some of those business include farming operations; a Volvo and Volkswagen dealership; a boat building operation; a tire retread business; a TV sales and service company; Oil Jobber Dealerships for Phillips 66, Esso and Texaco brands furnishing oil, gas, liquid petroleum gas and aviation fuels; mobile home sales and service; heating and air conditioning; insulation company; a flying service that included aircraft for lease, organ transportations for UNC Hospital, tv parts for Sylvania, and flights for political candidates; a coast to coast trucking company; a satellite sales and service company and Jack's Gas and Grill.
Bobby had a love of flying and obtained his private pilot's license in his early 20's. Throughout his life he owned and mastered flying single engine and multi-engine aircraft and achieved instrument certification. Being a fan of car racing, he was a NASCAR owner during the 1960's during which Buddy Baker was his driver. He owned and traveled with a professional gospel singing group, The Glory Road Quartet. He was an enthusiastic and long-term NC State Wolfpack Club Member and fan, proudly wearing his red and attending games whenever he could. Never meeting a stranger, he loved to talk to people. Bobby left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
After enlisting in the NC Army National Guard, Bobby proudly served his country for thirteen years. He was honorably discharged achieving the rank of Sgt E-5 Battery D 130th.
As a lifelong member of Benson Grove Baptist Church, he supported many ministries but especially The Highway Sheppard delivering God's word and care packages to many truckers and travelers. He also served as a Deacon and Elder at his wife's home church of Plainview Presbyterian.
Bobby is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Lee Johnson Langdon; daughter, Debra Langdon Warren and husband, Donald; son, Robert E Langdon II and wife, Jan; grandchildren, Don Warren, Jr. and wife, Tiffany, David Warren and wife, Shawna, Meagan Bulloch and husband, Marty, Robert Langdon III and wife, Bridgette; great-grandchildren, Burke Warren, Sadie Warren, Braylee Warren, Ridley Warren, Ben Bulloch, Nate Bulloch, Henry Langdon, Thomas Langdon, Matthew Langdon; and cousins.
Bobby brought optimism and heart into every aspect of life. He lived fully, laughed often, and cared deeply. His family is profoundly proud of the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. He will be missed dearly, but there is comfort in knowing his familiar voice and warm smile live on in the memories of so many.
The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this time.
Family will receive friends and family from 6:00PM to 8:00PM on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Benson Grove Baptist Church and other times at the home. Funeral Services will be 11:00AM Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Benson Grove Baptist Church in Benson. Burial will follow in Johnson Memorial Church Cemetery. Rev. Billy Cashwell will officiate.
Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson.
Published by The News & Observer from Jan. 14 to Jan. 16, 2026.