Robert Lee Woodard Sr., affectionately known as “Bob,” and to many in the music community, “Bob Israel,” peacefully left this life on May 24, 2026, at the age of 82.
Born on April 22, 1944, in Elm City, North Carolina, Robert was the son of the late Jimmy Woodard and Rose Horne. He graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in Elm City before proudly serving his country in the United States Army. While stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he attained the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4) and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Parachutist Badge.
Family was deeply important to Robert. He loved his partner, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy Woodard and Rose Horne; his brothers, Jimmie (Fannie) and Gravis, and his sister, Sandra.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved partner Tonya; his children, Cassandra “Yvette”, Tonya (Samuel), Robert Jr., Jennifer, Catrina (Charles), Moses, Domonic, and Joseph; twenty-six grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren; his loving sisters, Louise, Eva, and Margaret; his brothers, Timmie and Clyde; extended family, friends, fellow musicians, and all who were touched by his life, music, and spirit.
Music was not simply something Robert did. It was the thread that connected every chapter of his life. To know Robert was to know that music was never far from the conversation.
Known professionally as “Bob Israel,” he spent decades writing, recording, performing, and pursuing the dream that never left his heart. Some of his most well-known songs included “Forever,” “Love That You Read About,” I’m Waiting For You,” and “In Hard Times.” He loved the sounds of R&B legends such as Sam Cooke, Smokey Robinson, and The Temptations, but those who knew him best understood that the music he loved most was his own.
No matter where a conversation began, it often found its way back to music. Whether discussing a song idea, a recording session, or a future project, Robert’s passion for creating music never faded. Even in his final days, he continued thinking about music and working on songs that remained close to his heart.
Robert was also known for his unmistakable sense of style. Everything had to coordinate. Whether dressed in a matching sweatsuit and sneakers or stepping out in a sharp suit, fur coat, jewelry, sunglasses, and a hat, he took pride in looking his best. He carried himself with confidence, personality, and a youthful spirit that stayed with him throughout his life. He often joked that he was bald by choice, once growing his hair out just to prove that he could.
In his later years, Robert became increasingly focused on health and wellness. He enjoyed running, exercising, maintaining an active lifestyle, and caring for his fish. He was witty, determined, and often quick with a sarcastic remark that could leave those around him laughing. He was also known for his stubbornness. Once Robert made up his mind about something, there was rarely any changing it. Those who loved him knew that trait was simply part of what made him uniquely himself.
In his final days, Robert was surrounded by love, family, and the grace that carried him peacefully home.
Robert’s legacy lives on through the songs he created, the stories he shared, the family he loved, and the memories held by those who knew him. Though his final song may have ended, his music and love will continue to play on forever.
A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 10, 2026, at Albert G. Horton Jr Memorial Veterans Cemetery.
