Robert L. Withers

Rensselaer- On July 20, 2016 Robert Lee Withers, Jr. "Bones", 76, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Albany Medical Center hospital.

Robert affectionately known as "Bob" or to some as "Bones" was born on October 1, 1939 in Charlotte, NC. Bob was educated in the public school system in Charlotte while living with his grandparents, Harry and Mary Sadler. After completing his formal education he relocated to Albany, NY to be rejoined with his mother Corine Sadler and his other siblings. Robert later served for the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged.

When Bob returned home from the military he became a trucker and drove big rigs for several companies across the country. He later retired from RJ Valente after many years.

Bob enjoyed a good barbeque and food in general, especially fried chicken and macaroni and cheese. When it came to music it was jazz, jazz and more jazz, and maybe a little R&B. He was also a musician and played drums while a member of a men's group that performed around upstate New York. Bob also loved watching western movies and knew them all by heart. Mostly, Bob just loved spending quality time with his family and friends whenever he got a chance. He was a true Redskins fan and loved eating meat skins.

Robert is survived by his devoted wife Debra of 28 years and his son Robert Withers III. Also sisters P.A. Withers of Niskayuna, Jarrette (Waverly) Parker of Harrisburg, PA., Janet Martinez of Albany, brother Lowell Fludd of Temple Hills, MD, step-daughter Robin Emery, step-son Tracy Britt, sisters-in-law Judy (Kenny Clark) Breedlove and Linda (Tony) Butler, and brother-in-law Steven Emery. He also leaves to celebrate his life a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren nieces and nephew, great-nieces and nephews, family and friends.

We would like to thank the staff of Albany Medical Center CCU, the driver of the Star Bus, and Dr. Ariel LeRoy who performed life saving measures.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, July 29, 2016 from 12pm-1pm at New Comer Funeral Home, Colonie. A memorial service will follow at 1pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Robert's name may be made to the Albany Regional Dialysis Center.