Robert Ernest Kendall Jr.

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the unexpected passing of Robert Ernest Kendall Jr. on February 6, 2026. Born July 20, 1946, in Akron, Ohio, to Marilyn June (Hackett) Kendall Fairbanks Carman and Robert Ernest Kendall Sr.

Robert was a proud graduate of John R. Buchtel High School, class of 1965, and the University of Akron, where he built the foundation for a career marked by dedication, professionalism, and integrity. He became a respected Real Estate Appraiser and was known not only for his expertise but also for his passion for sharing knowledge. Robert was a prominent member of both the Society of Real Estate Appraisers and Appraisal Institute, in which he earned his SRPA and MAI designations, as well as taught for over 45 years locally and nationally within. He served several times as the president of the local chapters for both organisations.

He was a member of numerous organisations within the church and the community. Church was an essential part of Robert’s life in which he participated in the Brotherhood of Saint Andrews Smithfield, North Carolina, was a member of the founding group of Saint Christopher’s Anglican Church, as well as participated in vestry. Robert shared his love for music in the Men and Boys choir at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, Akron, Ohio, Grace Episcopal Church, Mansfield, Ohio, Saint James Episcopal Church, Wooster, Ohio, Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, Smithfield, North Carolina, Society Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, and Wayneaires Barbershop Quartet. His community outreach stemmed from participating in various organisations, including; Grand Lodge F & A.M. of Ohio Venus Lodge # 152 of Mansfield, Ohio, Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons of Ohio, King Cyrus Chapter # 207, Mansfield Commandry Knight Templar # 21, Tadmor Shriners of Akron, Ohio, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Historical Society, and Wayne County Rotary.

Robert will be deeply missed by his beloved high school sweetheart and wife of 56 ½ years Karen Lyne (Smith) Kendall; his daughter Deborah Anne, son in law Sean Lindon Buck; his cherished grandchildren Madison Kendall, Jacob Lindon and Joshua Edwin; his brother William Thomas Kendall; and his sisters Barbara Lynn (Kendall) Browder, Sally Jean (Carman) Bettes. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and integrity that will continue to live on through his family.

There will be a celebration of Life for Robert on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. 2nd Street, Smithfield, NC 27577.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Choir, Smithfield, North Carolina or Saint Christopher’s Anglican Church, 5200 Cleveland Road, Suite E, Wooster, Ohio 44691.

Online condolences can be made at www.parrishfh.com.