Robert Dean Conway, Jr.

Robert Dean Conway, Jr. passed peacefully in his home after a courageous two-year cancer battle on June 10th at the young age of 63.

Bob was born in Barberton, Ohio on July 13, 1956 before moving to Newport News, Va at the age of 17 to attend the Shipyard Apprentice School.  In 1975, Bob met the love of his life, Debbie and spent the remainder of his life dedicated to his family in Poquoson, Va.

Bob is preceded in rest by his mother, Edith Faye Conway and father, Robert D. Conway, Sr. and father-in-law Osbourne (Red) Nester.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 42 years, Debbie Conway and children, Charles Conway of Newport News, Jonathon Conway of Poquoson and Jennifer Jean of Columbus, OH; grandchildren, Brianna Trench and Ashten Conway; sisters Sherry Ballard (Charlie), Debbie Santrock, Diane Dixon (Bo), Lisa Reeder and mother-in-law Betty L. Nester, brother-in-laws, Sam Nester (Mary Ellen) and Randy Nester, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob graduated from the Shipyard Apprentice School and began his career in 1978.  During his 44 years at the shipyard, Bob was an apprentice school instructor for 3 years, a foreman and general foreman of the sheet metal shop for 32 years and ended his legacy by dedicating his last 5 years as the manufacturing division’s safety lead, also known as the “safety sheriff”. Bob participated in numerous extracurriculars at the shipyard including being President of the Mariners Club for 2 years, participating in the STEM Middle School trade shows for 5 years, managing the Hope for Warriors manufacturing golf tournament and participating in the shipyard golf league.  His 44 years of service and dedication to the shipyard earned him many accolades, some of the most prestigious being: Master Shipbuilder and a three-time recipient of the Presidents Model of Excellence award winner.  Bob retired in 2018 as a true legend of the yard.

Outside of work Bob loved golfing with his buddies, taking his love on casino dates and spending time with his kids and grandkids.  Bob was known for creating a loving environment to which he “adopted” many of his children’s friends and extra grandkids. 

The family would like to thank all the amazing doctors and nurses at Riverside Cancer Center and Riverside Hospice care for taking such good care of Bob during his cancer journey.

Due to COVID-19, a memorial ceremony will be held at a later date to honor Bob.

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