Robert "Bob" William Reading

Robert “Bob” Reading, 65, passed away on Tuesday April 1, 2025. He was the oldest son of five children, born to William “Bill” and Natalie Reading in College Park, MD. Growing up in Prince George’s County, one of Bob’s biggest passions was sports - namely baseball. Playing baseball throughout his entire childhood he went on to play, and eventually coach, at both Northwestern HS and Prince George's Community College. His academic career took him to the University of Maryland, where he cultivated another one of his passions: music. Bob spent many years as a DJ at College Park staples such as The Vous and The Back Room and later in life, on Kent Island, he brought his love of music to countless weddings, school dances, and parties. For over 30 years he worked as an Environmental Planner in Prince George’s County, 22 of them even after moving to Kent Island, MD with his wife and children. After retiring from the county Bob worked for the local Post Office and liquor store in Stevensville. Though his career evolved over the years, two constants remained: baseball and music. Most members of the KI community recognize him as “Coach Bob”, “DJ Bob”, or plain old B-O-B! For three decades Bob dedicated his time and expertise to coaching various levels of youth, travel, and high school baseball and softball on Kent Island. Recently, he was named the head coach of the Freshman team at DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville. Most importantly, he shared his love of the game with all three of his children, coaching them from t-ball through high school. If it involved baseball, he found a way to be part of it—whether as a coach or as a devoted fan, following his daughter’s softball career at Drexel University or his sons’ time at DeMatha. Beyond sports and music, Bob enjoyed fishing, birdwatching, and reminiscing. His stories often featured Baltimore Orioles legends, notable celebrities he encountered while working as a bouncer at Jaspers, and the time he kicked out Hall of Famer Boomer Esiason out of The Back Room—twice. He was an avid Maryland Terrapin fan. When Byrd Stadium opened, his father Bill purchased season tickets. Bob grew up watching football games on the 50 yard line and eventually would bring his own family to do the same. Bob will be remembered for his kind and easygoing personality, his ability to fill a dance floor, and his knowledge of the game of baseball. Most importantly he will be remembered for the love he had for his family, friends, and athletes. He is survived by his former wife Arlene Reading; his daughter Jennifer “Jenn” Reading; his sons William “Bill” Reading (Bonnie Reading) and Daniel “Dan” Reading (Natalie Reading); his siblings Barbara “Bunny” Gronki (Joe Gronki), Richard “Rick” Reading (Eileen Reading)”, Noel Reading, and Charles Reading; his grandchildren Elijah and Genevieve Reading who will carry his memory with them along with many members of the Kent Island community. There will be a private funeral service for his immediate family on Wednesday April 9, 2025. A celebration of life will be held April 13, 2025 and in lieu of flowers or gifts, the family would like to accept any donations to help offset the costs of throwing the party they know Bob would love and deserves. All are welcome, and more information can be found at the following link https://www.facebook.com/share/15936NYeyz/

Robert "Bob" William Reading

April 23, 1959 - April 1, 2025