In Memoriam: Longtime Rumson Resident, Robert Nixon, 87

Longtime Rumson resident, Robert Louis Nixon, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 18 with his family by his side. He was 87.

Robert was born on May 24, 1937 at Margaret Hague Hospital in Jersey City to William and Catherine Nixon. He graduated from Henry Snyder High School in Jersey City and went into the United States Army where he was posted to the 214th Artillery Group in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Robert married the love of his life, Joan, in 1959 and was married 65 years before she passed in August of 2024.

“He was heartbroken by this loss, as she was the light of his life. It brings peace knowing they are together again. They moved to Rumson, New Jersey in 1960 where they raised their two children, Jeffrey and Carabeth. Dad and Mom led a full life together, one of love and friendship …

“Robert adored spending time with his extended family and looked forward to gatherings during holidays and special occasions. He looked back fondly at his years summering in Bradley Beach and Highlands and as a lifeguard at Sandlass Beach Club. Those wonderful summers were spent with his parents, brother, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He loved swimming in the ocean and making dribble castles with his grandchildren.

“Robert enjoyed being in his workshop and woodworking. He loved dancing with his wife, Joan. He loved spending time with his children, daughter-in-law and grandchildren and instilled kindness and compassion in all of their lives. His smile was contagious, as he loved life. All of his children’s friends became friends with him, too, drawn to his warmth and generosity. Grandpa adored his grandkids. They shared a special relationship that was genuine. His brightest smile was when they were around. He loved being with them; and, they enjoyed being with Grandpa and Grandma. He especially valued the times he spent with them during their annual summer vacations to Stone Harbor for over 20 years. He was devoted to them and helped them grow into the people they are today.

“His greatest gift was his daughter Carabeth. They loved and cared for each other deeply. They shared an inseparable bond throughout his lifetime. The two lit up when they were together, and his immense love for her was always obvious. His love for his son was evident in everything he did. He not only imparted the skills of working with his hands, but also the essential lessons of love, kindness, and how to truly enjoy life.

Loved ones of Robert Nixon in his obituary

Robert worked for Bell Telephone and then became a lineman for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 164 before retiring. Robert was an active member in the Tower Hill Presbyterian Church and the Rumson Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed being part of Campus Club, the choir and handbells at Tower Hill Church. He loved spending time with his cherished friends met through the church and Small Group. He found fulfillment in his strong faith in God.

He is predeceased by his siblings, Viola Elliott, William Nixon Jr., and Jeanne Robinson.

Robert is survived by: his son, Jeffrey Nixon and his wife, Holly; his daughter, Carabeth Nixon; his four grandchildren, Jessica Nixon, Amy Nixon and her fiancé, Colin Johnson, Allison and her husband, Tyler Plante, and Gregory Nixon; his extended family, the Lowenbergs, Robinsons, and Boukers; and his niece and goddaughter, Penny Nixon.

“Robert was a kind hearted, devoted family man. His friends and family meant everything to him. He lived an amazing life. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. He was a great dad. Love you dad.”

A memorial service for Robert and Joan Nixon will be held at Tower Hill Presbyterian Church in Red Bank on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 11 a.m.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home

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