Darl "Bud" Robeson

Darl E. “Bud” Robeson was called home to heaven on April 18, 2026. He died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Newark, DE, attended by his family. Bud was the humblest of men: a servant of God, a loyal friend, devoted husband, dedicated father, and extraordinary grandfather. Whether you knew him as Bud, Dad, or Poppi, all mourn his passing, and his life is celebrated. Bud was born on October 24, 1935, in Williamsburg, PA, to parents Fred and Ada (Reigh) Robeson. He was a diligent worker and excelled in sports, especially baseball, football, and basketball. Although Bud was modest to a fault and would never dwell on his own achievements on the athletic field, the archives bear out his prowess. The following excerpt from the sports section of Bud’s hometown newspaper will do the bragging Bud would never think of doing: “Bud Robeson, catcher-outfielder of Williamsburg’s entry in the Blair County Baseball League, is the club’s top batter through June 24th. He has an average of .571. In loop tests, he has socked the apple at a .429 clip. Bud’s average for exhibition games is a sizzling .714.” And there is an argument to be made that baseball was not even his best sport. Bud graduated from Williamsburg High, attended Williamson Trade School, and graduated from Lock Haven State Teachers College with a teaching degree. Along the way he met Lois Louise Test. Bud and Lowie were married November 27, 1958. They settled in Bellwood, PA, where both were teachers. Their three children, Bill, Todd, and Jennie, were born during these years. In 1966, lured by the tempting teaching programs offered at the University of Delaware, Bud moved his family to Newark, DE, and purchased the house he and Lowie would call home together for almost 60 years. He began teaching math while he pursued his advanced degree. Bud first taught at Christiana High School, then after a few years moved across town to rival Newark High School. During this time, he also pursued his love of athletics through coaching, leading the freshmen Newark Yellowjackets and serving as assistant to longtime friend and head varsity coach, Rocky Reese. After earning his Master’s Degree in Education, Bud continued teaching math at Newark High before transitioning to the role of full-time Guidance Counselor. He excelled in this new role, and he ultimately assumed the head position for the Guidance Department. Bud remained in this role until his first retirement in 1991. After working for several years in the Guidance Department of Perryville (MD) Middle School, Bud retired again to roll full-steam-ahead into babysitting grandkids. When he drew his last breath, “Poppi” was the enormously proud grandfather of ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Bud’s kids were encouraged but never strongarmed, to pursue their passions, including sports. He was a mainstay at practices and games, agreeing to assist with coaching on several teams over the years. If you ask Bud’s children, they would be hard-pressed to recall a time when he said no to having a catch, pitching batting practice, or whatever the season called for. Bud’s keen interest in sports was evident throughout his life. After his playing days were over, including time on the church softball team, Bud remained an avid fan of multiple sports. In particular, he closely followed the Philadelphia Phillies, the Duke University basketball team, and the Penn State University wrestling team. After his second and final retirement, Bud began hosting an annual pilgrimage to Sea Isle City, NJ. This week-long trip was a cherished tradition for the whole family for many years. His kids’ favorite part was Bud’s familiar admonition to them that: “Your money’s no good here.” In his “spare” time, Bud participated in numerous activities. He worked out at the gym several times per week, well into his eighties. He was a long-time blood donor and was on a first-name basis with much of the staff at the Blood Bank. Bud was a dedicated member of Ogletown Baptist church, attending services there for well over 50 years. During many of those years he taught a senior adult Sunday school class, whose members affectionately named themselves the “Rose Buds.” Bud is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lowie, his children Bill Robeson (Debra) of Newark, DE, Todd Robeson (Susi), of Bear, DE, and Jennie Houser (Mike), of Selbyville, DE. He is also survived by sister Kay McGraw, and by his beloved nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his younger brother, Ron. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Ogletown Baptist Church, 316 Red Mill Rd, Newark, DE 19711. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. and the service at 2:00 p.m. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com In lieu of flowers, spend time doing something fun with your family, or being of service to someone in need.

Darl "Bud" Robeson

October 24, 1935 - April 18, 2026

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