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BORN
1933
DIED
2022
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Robert Ackerman Obituary
October 26, 1933 - October 3, 2022
Blacksburg, Virginia - On Monday, October 3, 2022, Robert Kilgo Ackerman, 88, of Blacksburg, Virginia died leaving a loving wife, May Morgan Ackerman, of 66 years, and three children, Mark K. Ackerman (Mandy), of Lexington, SC, Roxanne Spencer (Eddie), of Kannapolis, NC, and Bettye Ackerman (Michael Garvin), of Blacksburg, VA and five grandchildren who adored their Papa, Robert Spencer (Sara), of Spartanburg, SC, Andrew Spencer (Olivia) of Greenville, SC, Rachel Spencer of Kannapolis, NC, Cassidy Ackerman-Garvin and Finlay Ackerman-Garvin of Blacksburg, VA, and two great-grandchildren, Sophie Spencer and Hugo Spencer of Greenville, SC, a sister-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews as well as his two faithful companions, Tanner and Annie.
Robert was born on October 26, 1933 to Clarence Kilgo Ackerman and Mary Ackerman Peeples and was raised in Williston, SC. His lifelong love of reading and learning led to a distinguished career in college teaching and administration. He last served as President of Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia. Robert was rarely seen without a book and could always be counted on to know something about almost any topic, especially history and music - both of which he enjoyed to the very end. He was a proud Gamecock, having earned his BA, MA, and PhD from USC. He also served his country as a Marine from 1956-1963.
Robert was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was always interested in and encouraging to his children and grandchildren. He was a committed Christian and demonstrated his faith in how he loved and treated others. He was also a proud lifelong (unbiased) Democrat. Robert was fortunate to have many close friends. Robert and May resided at Warm Hearth in Blacksburg, Virginia and appreciated the loving and dedicated care they received by the staff at Showalter.
Robert was preceded in death by his sister, Bettye Ackerman Jaffe, and brothers, Thomas Ackerman and Ricky Ackerman. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Warm Hearth Foundation, 2607 Warm Hearth Dr, #100, Blacksburg, VA 24060 or a non-profit of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Ackerman
Hugh Spitler
February 18, 2025
Bob Ackerman was a man of integrity and a visionary leader at Wesleyan College.
Hilary Kight
November 17, 2022
I was very sadden to hear of Dr. Ackerman´s passing. I started my career at Wesleyan the same year that he did. I always admired and respected Dr. Ackerman for his integrity, his intelligence , and his kindness. He was a wonderful President at Wesleyan, with a real commitment to learning and to the highest standards for the students.
Susan (Kessler) Apter Drew '83
November 15, 2022
I was fortunate to have Dean Ackerman for my freshman seminar at Drew University for the Fall semester 1979 on the Civil War including a memorable trip to Gettysburg, PA- I still have the souvenir box I picked up there. Wonderful teacher and great person. I also remember his sister and brother-in-law Bettye Ackerman Jaffe and Sam Jaffe receiving honorary degrees-a special moment for him. May Robert Ackerman's memory be for a blessing.
Heather Brown
October 14, 2022
My sincere condolences to the Ackerman family. Dr. Ackerman was president of Wesleyan while I was a student there and I've always held him in the highest regard. He was a great leader and exhibited humility and humor while doing so.
Heather Brown, Class of 1988
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Hugh Spitler
October 8, 2022
May: Bob was a man of principle and integrity. I cherish his memory and I greatly admired his commitment to academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas. I was privileged to serve as a faculty member under his leadership, and I greatly appreciated his support of faculty to pursue knowledge and express their views even if they disagreed with his own views. He was a great man, and I morn his passing.
Mike and Susan Mitton
October 8, 2022
Bob was such a kind man, and so knowledgeable about history. His classes for senior adults, which he taught at The Shepherd's Center, Lexington, SC were always a popular choice among participants. He was missed when he moved away.
He and Mae contributed so much to Lexington UMC, we remember them fondly.
Evelyn Leatherman Griffin
October 8, 2022
I met Dr. Ackerman within the first month of my time at Wesleyan and somehow ever since that day we forged a friendship that has lasted the test of time. I left every conversation with him a better scholar, a better citizen and a better person. I will always remember my last visit with the Ackerman´s- you both were still in SC. He looked over to you, May, and said "Isn´t she beautiful?" That to me says everything about his legacy- how special he made us all feel. May sweet memories, gratitude and faith bring comfort to you all during this difficult time. With much love, Evelyn Leatherman Griffin (and family) Class of 1997
John Rakestraw
October 7, 2022
May -- You likely won't remember me, but I started my career teaching at Wesleyan while Bob was president and was fortunate enough not only to teach there but also to work with Bob on several projects. Thinking of you during this time.
Karene Harron Nebel, Class of 1990
October 7, 2022
Mrs. Ackerman, Mark, Roxanne, Bettye and to all your family, God´s peace be with you all.
"Dr. Ackerman" was beloved by so many as he lived an amazing life of humble service. His time at Wesleyan provided such growth for the college. Every Wesleyanne owes him such a debt of gratitude. I am personally so honored and blessed to have had him as a role model of what true Christian servitude is and should always be. I can imagine God´s greeting upon Dr. Ackerman entering Heaven, "Well-done, good and faithful servant!" (Something tells me that Petey the dachshund was there to greet him too.)
On behalf of the Class of 1990, may you find comfort in the peace of our Lord.
Trudie fickling
October 7, 2022
Warm memories of a kind personable man who loved his family and Wesleyan
Trudie sessions fickling
Erin Gerzema
October 7, 2022
I have such admiration for this MAN, he will live on as being the BEST true example of what a husband should strive to be. He will remain in my heart forever. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and especially May. God bless.
Kayron McMinn Laska
October 6, 2022
My love and sympathy to you, May, and to Mark, Roxanne, and Bettye. I admired and respected Bob Ackerman so much, and appreciated the opportunity to work with him At Wesleyan. His intelligence, sense of humor,and courage provided a great example. And his love for his family was always apparent. He was a great man, and we feel his loss deeply. Kayron McMinn Laska
Carolyn Garvin
October 6, 2022
Bob was a gentleman, a scholar, a caring individual, and a friend to many. Being in his presence was always an interesting and wonderful experience. Love and prayers to the family, especially to May and to my wonderful daughter-in-law, Bettye.
Joy Bloodworth
October 6, 2022
Sorry I never knew you, but love your daughter Roxanne and her husband Eddie.
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