Robert Clary

Robert Edward Clary CHAPIN Robert "Big Bob" Edward Clary, 77, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on September 25, 2016. He was born in Gaffney, SC, son of the late Ben and Frances Clary. He moved to Bamberg, SC at an early age and was a 1957 graduate of Bamberg High School, where he was an All-State football player for Coach Dick Weldon and was also a member of the 1957 Governor's School. After graduation, Bob went to work for WWBD Radio Station, where he would continue to work off and on for many years. Then his dream of owning a radio station was realized in 1994, when he purchased WWBD. Big Bob led a rich life with many friends and was recognized on many occasions for his generosity and philanthropy. One of his greatest honors was when he established the Bob Clary Christmas Fund, which raised over $200,000 for many needy families and organizations. In 1995, Bob was selected to receive the "Gray Jacket" award through the Old Friends Invitational Golf Classic for being an outstanding citizen. In 1999, he was selected as "Citizen of the Year" for Bamberg County. He dearly loved broadcasting Red Raider Football for 45 years where he was known as the 'Voice of the Red Raiders.' He also served on the Board of Public Works for the City of Bamberg for 12 years. In March of 2015, the County of Bamberg passed a Resolution to honor, salute and thank Bob for his many years of service. These years of service were unselfishly given to the people of Bamberg County where many lives were touched during the process. One of his greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren participate in activities, especially golf. Bob was a longtime member and usher of Bamberg First Baptist Church. He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Carmen; children: Kay Clary of Bamberg, Jill Clary Latimer (David) of Lexington, Cindy Clary Mills (Frank) of Ocean Isle Beach, NC., Rick Free (Renee) of Moncks Corner, Brantley Free (Allison) of Chapin, Malee Free Taylor (Raymond) of Johnson City, TN, and Lindsey Free Nimmo (Rad) of Columbia, 10 Grandchildren: Kayla, Windi, Josh, Parker, Jakob, Kort, Aidan, Deuce, Addison and Raynie; 2 sisters, Bennie (Jim) Bremer of Bamberg and Libby (Johnny) Bowzard of Holly Hill. He was predeceased in death, and is now reunited in Heaven, with his son, Winn Clary. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at 3 p.m. at Bamberg First Baptist Church, Bamberg, with the Rev. Odell Breland officiating, with the assistance of Rev. Charlie Lucas. The family will receive friends from 2-3 at the church, prior to the service. Interment will immediately be following the service at Bamberg Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society. Cooner Funeral Home, LLC is assisting the family.