Robert Edward Humphreys, Sr. (Col. USAF, Ret.), widower of Betty Bellinger Humphreys, died June 18, 2023. Born on July 10, 1940, in Upper Darby Township, PA. He was the second child of Elizabeth Henderson Carlisle and Robert Willis Humphreys (Col. USAF, Ret.).

He spent his early childhood in Wayne, PA, graduated from Valley Forge Military Academy in 1958 and attended Duke University for two years. He received a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of SC in 1962. He later earned a master's degree in business administration from Golden Gate University.

Following graduation from USC, he completed Officers Training School at Lackland AFB, TX. He earned his wings at Moody AFB, Valdosta, GA and went on to F-100 training at Luke AFB, Glendale, AZ. He continued as a fighter pilot during the Vietnam War, Base Commander at Bitburg, Germany and finally as Commander of AFROTC at his alma mater, USC, completing 26 years of active duty. He retired from the Air Force in 1988. Col. Humphreys was a highly decorated officer with more than 3,200 flying hours. His military decorations and awards include two Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Meritorious Service Medals, the Air Medal with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters and the Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters.

After retirement from the Air Force, Col. Humphreys was employed at Midlands Technical College as the campus manager for both the Beltline Campus and Airport Campus. In 1989, Col. Humphreys was promoted to Director of Midlands Technical College Physical Plant. He retired in 2004 and served as a consultant for 5 more years. He was a lifetime member of The Daedalians, Kiwanis International and a devoted member of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.

He is survived by four children, Harriett H. Begg (John), Susan B. Humphreys, Robert E. Humphreys, Jr. (Libby), and Edgar C. Humphreys (Michelle), son in law Stephen D. Smith, grandchildren John W. Begg, Jr. (Aimee), Elizabeth A. Begg, Madeline E. Humphreys, Robert E. Humphreys III, great grandsons Jacob W. Ervin, Jaxton B. McBride, sister Elizabeth Humphreys Hudson of Walla Walla, WA and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, wife, and daughter, Joan H. Smith.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers from Colonial Gardens, Agape Hospice, and especially Ms. Kris Streetman of Agape Hospice.

Service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral on Friday, June 23, 2023 at 10:30 am, with interment in the Trinity Graveyard. The family will greet friends in the Sterling Room of the Cathedral directly afterward.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the FSHD Society, 75 North Main St. Suite 1073, Randolph, MA 02368.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.