Robert "Robin" Boylan Jr.

1948 - 2021

Robert Ambrose Boylan Jr. died on Thursday, September 30, 2021 after a brief illness. Robin "Beano" to his grandchildren and closest friends, was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 9, 1948 to Katharine Braselman Boylan and Robert Ambrose Boylan, Sr., both of whom preceded him in death, as did his beloved sister, Kathleen Boylan Cowart. Robin went to Christ School in Arden, North Carolina, where lifelong relationships were forged, and unforgettable memories were made. After high school he attended the University of Louisiana, majoring in History and English with plans begin Tulane Law School in the Fall. Much to his father's chagrin, Robin decided instead to take a tour across America in his 1964 navy blue Mustang convertible visiting twenty-three states and countless friends. Returning home, Robin began a photography apprenticeship under Frank Lotz Miller. He learned the art of portraiture, commercial photography of fashion and food, and carnival and debutante balls. Photography became his passion, and he became known as the "master of light". During his apprenticeship their work appeared in regional Louisiana publications, as well as national journals and magazines including Progressive Architecture, Architectural Forum, Architectural Record, and Interiors. Robin most enjoyed taking pictures of the candid moments from all of his life's revelry with loved ones. Robin met his wife Barbara Brown during Lady's Night at Mother's Bar in New Orleans and the rest, as they say, was history. They were married on September 7, 1974 on the porch of his parents' cottage, Chipmunk Hill in Arden, NC. Both lost their parents at a young age so they decided to move to that same city where Robin had fallen in love with the mountains while at boarding school. The two were happily married forty-three years before Barbara, BB to her family and friends, died of early onset Alzheimer's. Their love for one another and for their friends was something to behold. Robin began working for Beverly-Hanks Commercial Real Estate in 1988 and remained there his entire career. He became a renowned Commercial Agent in Western North Carolina and was past President of CCIM, a member of SIOR, a board member of the Alzheimer's Association, board member for Christ School, Rhododendron Royal Brigade of Guards, the Louisiana Club, Krewe of Chaos, the Sunday Sinners and an honorary member of the Wrong Day Duck Club. His relentless advocacy for the Alzheimer's Association in honor of BB was a true testament to their love story. Robin was larger than life and a true bon vivant. He adored his friends and family, hosting them often and sharing his love through cooking, dancing, and exuberant singing. He was a true gentleman, taking the time to sincerely listen, and made anyone around him feel important and loved. His Shrimp (or Grillades) and Grits, Duck Gumbo, and Jambalaya have comforted so many families and have been integral to all our holiday gatherings. He was happiest on the water, but only if it was tidal. He recalled some of the most joyous times of his life were fishing with his father down off Breton Sound, hunting ducks at the Bayou Club, hooking a redfish or shooting doves with his daughter. His joie de vivre was evident in all aspects of his life and the world is now a little darker without him in it. Robin is survived by his daughter Katharine Boylan Fuchs, husband Maximilian Fuchs and their children, Ford Boylan Fuchs, Amelie Ambrose Fuchs and Dakota Daniel Fuchs, son M.V. "Beau" Breckenridge and wife Jacqueline Brown Breckenridge and their children Charlotte Walker Breckenridge and Wilder Brown Breckenridge. He is also survived by his brother Russell Brooks Boylan and his wife Jennifer and their children. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at The Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village on Friday, October 29 at 10:00 in the morning. An internment will follow in the Garth for the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The Cathedral of All Souls and to Christ School. The family would like to thank the excellent care of Dr. Jim Cummings and Dr. Philip Fontenot throughout the past several weeks.