Robert Sylvester Boddie Jr's Obituary
Robert (Bob) Sylvester Boddie Jr., 63, departed this life September 9, 2022, after battling cancer while at Tacoma General Hospital, Tacoma, Washington.
Robert was born November 2, 1958, to Robert Sr. and Dorothy Boddie of Washington, D.C. After moving with family to Bremerton in 1964, Robert grew up excelling in sports and forming life-long friendships. He was driven to help others and give back to the community. In 1993, Robert founded the social justice organization P.O.W.E.R (People Organized Working for Ethnic Reality) with a mission of fostering positive social interaction for all communities. Working with underprivileged and underserved communities, P.O.W.E.R confronted racism when and where it existed, and worked with government agencies and the private sector, assisting low-income families to become self-supportive through job creation.
Robert was a well-known community leader, respected throughout Kitsap County and beyond. Largely due to his organizing skills and commitment, since 2002, Kitsap County has consistently held a Juneteenth celebration where, in Robert’s words, “Everyone is welcome to come, have fun and food, and learn about positive aspects of black culture”. Robert positively impacted the lives of many at-risk young people and others by providing counseling, mentorship, education, advocacy, and activism. Robert fought racially disparate and disproportionate treatment in schools and the juvenile justice system, believing strongly that there are no “throw away” families or youth of promise. Under the auspices of P.O.W.E.R, Robert confronted poverty and until his death to prevent suicide, domestic violence, aggression, drug and alcohol abuse, and loss of opportunity.
In his free time, Robert loved to spend time with his grandchildren, and to gather with family and close friends. He also greatly enjoyed watching (and commenting on) sports, listening and dancing to old school R&B and traveling.
Robert will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and many others. He is preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Boddie. He is survived by his father, Robert Boddie Sr.; sister, Michelle Bussey; brother, Tony Boddie; two daughters, Candice Ervin and Shakera Boddie; two sons, Robert Boddie III and Armand Boddie; 9 grandchildren; and 7 nieces and nephews. Robert made a difference in the lives of others and will continue to do so through his legacy.
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