News Summary
Colonel (Ret.) Robert Arthur ‘Bob’ Mangum has passed away at the age of 90, surrounded by family in Williamsburg, VA. A distinguished military aviator and community leader, Bob’s legacy spans decades of service and commitment to family, sports, and Virginia Tech. His life was celebrated for its love and adventure, influencing all who knew him. A memorial service will honor his contributions to the community and family. Bob is survived by his siblings, children, and grandchildren, who will carry on his spirit of generosity and leadership.
Williamsburg, VA – Colonel (Ret.) Robert Arthur “Bob” Mangum passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, at the age of 90. He was surrounded by his loving family at Patriots Colony in Williamsburg. Bob’s legacy of military service and community engagement left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Born on September 21, 1935, near Nebo, North Carolina, Bob was the son of Arthur and Mallie (Cowan) Mangum. He spent much of his childhood in Newport News, Virginia, where he graduated from Warwick High School. Bob went on to earn both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech).
On June 21, 1958, Bob married his high school sweetheart, Cary Davidson, at Hilton Presbyterian Church. Their partnership was characterized by love, adventure, and laughter, with Bob living life with what he described as “reckless abandon.” An athlete during his time at Warwick High and Virginia Tech, he excelled in sports and developed a passion for aviation, which he pursued as both a pilot and soldier.
Bob enjoyed a distinguished military career in the U.S. Army, where he served as an Army Aviator and Acquisition professional. His service included multiple tours in Vietnam and Germany. After dedicating over 25 years to the military, he retired in 1984 from Fort Eustis, Virginia. Following his military career, he transitioned to the aviation industry, becoming the Hampton Roads representative for Hughes Helicopter, McDonnell Douglas, and The Boeing Company.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Bob was deeply committed to his community and his alma mater, Virginia Tech. He actively coached youth sports teams for his children and supported the Virginia Tech Alumni Association and Corps of Cadets. His enthusiasm for leadership inspired everyone he encountered, whether at work, in sports, or in community engagements.
Colonel Mangum is survived by his sisters Joy Oliver of Viera, Florida, and Sharon Bertsch of Cocoa, Florida. He leaves behind three children, including Lieutenant General (Ret.) Kevin (Angel) Mangum, Keith (Katherine) Mangum, and Katherine Mangum. Additionally, he is survived by his grandchildren: Captain Anela (Seamus Murray) Mangum and Ned Mangum.
A celebration of Bob’s life is scheduled for October 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Bucktrout of Williamsburg in Williamsburg, VA. The family suggests memorial donations be made to the Night Stalker Foundation or to Virginia Tech’s Corps of Cadets program in Bob’s honor.
Bob Mangum’s enduring spirit of service and community involvement will be remembered by many. His personal touch, characterized by boundless energy, humor, and a generous spirit, made him an unforgettable figure in the lives of those he touched.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: Robert A. Mangum Obituary
- Wikipedia: U.S. Army
- Daily Press: Virginia Tech Alumni Association
- Google Search: Aviation History
- Daily Press: Colonel Robert Mangum Military Career
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Military Service
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
