Bob Plews passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, at the age of 76, surrounded by his children. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, pride in community, and unwavering support for everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Bob was born to Harry and Marian Plews (nee Rorke) and was a longtime resident of Gloucester City. He was the youngest of five children, growing up with four older sisters with whom he shared unyielding love. They helped shape his character, humor, and strength. He was a proud Gloucester High School graduate and went on to earn his degree from Rutgers University New Brunswick.
Bob’s love for community and teamwork was evident in his many years of service as a Little League board member and devoted supporter of youth sports. The fields meant everything to him; not just for the games played on them, but for the kids, families, and sense of togetherness they represented. He attended the Little League World Series for many years and cherished the many memories he made with his friends. He continued following local sports and loved cheering people on from behind the dugout, courtside and poolside and took immense pride in seeing others succeed, especially his grandchildren.
After his retirement from CSX Corporation, Bob enjoyed driving school buses for Haddon Township and Gloucester City where he made so many connections with coaches, students and athletes. He enjoyed his crew and their regular breakfast and lunches at Dunkin or the diners.
Bob was also an avid Phillies, Eagles and Flyers fan. He loved deep sea fishing, attending concerts, theater and the ponies. Known as the king of dad jokes, Bob also enjoyed trivia, board games, Jeopardy and “occasionally” had the rare opportunity to win when playing his children in these games.
A liver transplant recipient, Bob embodied resilience, gratitude, and determination. He never took a single day for granted and continued to give back in every way he could. Even when he was no longer able to actively volunteer, he followed every story closely: big wins, little wins, and everything in between.
Above all, Bob was a devoted family man. He is survived by the mother of his children, Mary Ellen Plews (Gorman). Loving father of Jennifer DePoder (Rocco), Bob (Diana), Kevin (Linda) and Matt (Adriane). Cherished “Pop Pop” of Cailyn, Jacob, Sophia, Ryleigh, Grace, Dino, Brooklynn, Maddie, Sonny, Josh, Jeremy and Camryn. Beloved brother of Happy Ingeman (late Rev. Peter Ingeman, Lt. Col (ret)), Karen Zirbser (Skip), Linda Tarkett (late Leo) and the late Nancy Taylor (surviving Bill). Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. His pride in his family was constant and unmistakable.
Bob’s story would not be complete without honoring his hero, John, the selfless organ donor who gave him the gift of a new liver in 2002. That extraordinary gift allowed Bob to live 23 more years, blessing him with the opportunity to celebrate countless milestones and create precious family memories. Most importantly, it enabled him to witness the birth of all 12 of his grandchildren.
In true Irish-wake spirit, Bob would want to be remembered with stories, laughter, and togetherness. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Wednesday morning, February 4th from 9:30 to 11:15 AM at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, 426 Monmouth St., Gloucester City, where his funeral service will be celebrated at 11:30 AM.
Interment will be private in Forest Hills Cemetery, Huntingdon Valley, PA where he will be reunited with his parents.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Gloucester City Little League, P.O. Box 183, Gloucester City, NJ 08030 or to the Lions Athletics Booster Club, 1300 Market Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030 and their Venmo: @Lionsathleticsboosterclub. Please note on the donation “In Memory of Bob Plews” in the memo. Additionally, if you are not already an organ donor, please consider registering. Your decision could give someone else the same priceless gift Bob received.
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Robert A. Plews, Sr. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCann-Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142
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