Robert Edward Mumford

Robert Edward Mumford, "Bob," of Chestertown, MD, formerly of Randolph, NJ, and Oswego, NY, died on February 1, 2016, at the age of 91. Bob is survived by his wife, Susan Axford Mumford; his children, David L. Mumford of Westborough, MA, and Cathy Mumford Helmuth and husband Garrett Helmuth of West Chester, PA; his grandsons, David R., Michael J., and William L. Mumford; and great-granddaughter, Aleah. He is preceded in death by his son, Daniel H. Mumford; his parents, Frank and Rosetta Mumford of Oswego, NY, formerly of Isle of Sheppey, England; and his siblings, Leon Mumford, Richard Mumford, Howard Mumford and Grace Mumford Miner. Robert Mumford was born on May 12, 1924, in Oswego, NY. He left high school early to enlist in the US Navy, serving his country as an aviation ordinance specialist on the USS Bogue, the most successful anti-submarine aircraft carrier in WW II that was responsible for sinking 11 German and two Japanese submarines. Honorably discharged with many medals in 1946, he returned to Oswego, NY, to finish high school. After graduation, he realized a boyhood dream by joining the New York State Police as a State Trooper. After his stint with the state police, he went to college at SUNY Oswego, earning both BS and Master’s degree in Education. He was a teacher with Morristown High School in New Jersey from 1950 to 1985. He taught Industrial Arts, including printing, photography, and other graphic arts. He served as the Department Head for the disciplines of fine arts, home economics, and industrial arts. Throughout his career he supported his students as a coach of basketball, soccer, and swimming, and cross-country/track. He was also a respected soccer referee. In addition, he acted as advisor to the ski and Key clubs. During his tenure as a teacher, he also took on summer jobs that included managing a local pool, house painting, and printing for the Morristown School District. In his free time, he was an active member and served as President of the Morristown Kiwanis Club. He also served the community as part of the Lions Club in Chestertown, MD. Bob enjoyed hunting pheasant with his son, Danny, and his faithful bird dog, Pat. He was an avid stamp collector, a hobby he continued throughout his life. Bob also enjoyed time out on the golf course with his many friends. He took pride in his beautiful yards and gardens both in New Jersey and Maryland. He was an accomplished woodworker who created furniture and did repairs. Bob and Sue were married for 61 years, and he was a devoted husband and father. He is fondly remembered by so many people including friends of his children who he always enjoyed having around. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, April 2, at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral home in Chestertown, MD, at 2 p.m. A reception will follow. At a future date, Mr. Mumford's remains will be interred at the Arlington National Cemetery with military honors. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or to the Humane Society of Kent County-10720 Augustine Herman Highway, Chestertown, MD 21620.

Robert Edward Mumford

May 12, 1924 - February 1, 2016