J. Robert Hitchens, soldier, attorney

J. Robert Hitchens, 78, of Milford, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Bob was a quiet, gentle, and considerate man who always placed his family ahead of himself.

Bob graduated from Milton High School and Salisbury State University, captaining the basketball teams of both schools. He then served five years in the U.S. Army. As a lieutenant, Bob was an infantry platoon leader in Vietnam. Upon promotion to captain, he commanded a Psychological Warfare Company at Fort Bragg. Bob made 33 jumps as an Army parachutist.

After his service, Bob graduated from Wake Forest Law School and practiced law in Sussex County. Thereafter, he became an antiques dealer, specializing in pottery and glass from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, James and Betty Hitchens of Milton. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Vonnie Hitchens; daughter Sarah Davis (Shawn) of Milton; stepdaughter, Tracey Ingram (Randy) of Milford; and three grandchildren, Summer Taylor, Wesley Davis, and Emma Davis, all of Milton.

Memorial services and interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bob’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org/donate.

Visit Bob’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.