August 6, 2025, 80, Goldsboro —
Robert Wayne Short, known as Bob, passed away peacefully after a rapid decline from cancer on August 6, 2025 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center in Goldsboro, NC. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on November 24, 1945, he was the son of the late Harold W. Short and Dorothy Dow Short.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Amelia (Amy) Shafer Short; daughter, Tina Alyce Gilmore (Brian Presto) and sons, Toby John Short (Staci Lynne) and Todd Ray Short (Vanessa); grandchildren Breven B. Gilmore (Gloria Stracquadanio), Skylar Malloy Gilmore (Connor Paugh), Haley M. Short, and Anthony Joseph (AJ) Presto; brothers C. Randy Short (Donna) and Tim Short. Bob is also survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family that he loved very much.
A lifelong car enthusiast, Bob worked as a talented mechanic and auto body technician. Whether under the hood or restoring a vehicle, he took pride in every detail. He especially loved his 1954 Chevy Pickup, which he liked to tell everyone he had longer than his children. His love for all things cars was matched only by his collection of pocket knives and his knack for fixing up bicycles, always ready to give new life to something old.
Bob generously gave his time to help others, most especially working alongside Tony and Karen Baker at their Whistle Stop Auction Co where he was known as the “Resident Yankee” and very quickly became a part of the Baker family.
Bob also found himself in a new family of friends at American Legion Post 541. Bob had tried hard as a young man to enlist in the military and had always regretted that he wasn’t able to have that honor. He loved this country, this flag, and the men who protect and serve it, encouraging both of his sons to join. He was very honored to be recognized as an “honorary” member and tried hard to support them especially by selling raffle tickets.
At heart, Bob was a joyful and caring spirit. He loved to dance with his wife, jitterbugging the whole night to the oldies while sharing those quiet, beautiful moments dancing to “May I Have This Dance.” He had a sweet tooth and a special fondness for jelly beans, always keeping some on hand to share with others. Giving out candy became one of his small but meaningful ways of spreading kindness.
Above all, Bob lived with warmth, generosity, and an easy smile. He will be lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the good fortune of knowing him.
A memorial service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at St Joseph Methodist Church on August 16th with calling hour from 10 am until 11 am and a service beginning at 11 with Pastor Phyllis Vail presiding. The family will also receive friends and family in upstate New York at the Greene Lions Park Pavilion on August 29th from 11 am to 12 pm and are welcome to stay and join in a celebration of life from 12 to 3 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Ronald McDonald House Charities Maryland, 1 Aisquith Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 in memory of Bob. To donate, please click here and you will be directed to the proper link.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home.
