Final Salute

Robert “Bob” Jackson Petfield Jr., 92, of Rhinebeck, New York, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 24, 2026. Born on June 8, 1934, in White Plains, NY, Bob grew up in Thornwood, later raised his family in Putnam Valley, and spent his final years in Rhinebeck. His life was marked by unwavering faith, deep love for people, and a joyful devotion to Jesus that shaped everything he did.

Bob loved Jesus with all his heart. Anyone who knew him could recall hearing him whisper or proclaim, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,” a simple prayer that flowed naturally from a life surrendered to Christ. He was in church every time the doors were open, raising his children in the faith and modeling a steady, genuine walk with the Lord. Bob served faithfully for decades—playing trumpet on the worship team (including the night before he passed), attending prayer meetings, Bible studies, and small groups, and pouring into young men through Royal Rangers.

“With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the Lord, the King.” — Psalm 98:6 This verse reflects the way Bob worshiped: joyfully, wholeheartedly, and with the trumpet he loved to play for the glory of God.

A proud Navy veteran, Bob was part of the elite Navy Seabees. He served from 1953 to 1957, stationed in California and Okinawa, Japan—the very place where Jesus captured his heart and set the course for the rest of his life.

Bob was known for his kindness, his warm and generous spirit, and his hearty, unforgettable laugh. He loved sharing his testimony with anyone who would listen, always eager to tell of God’s goodness. He delighted in attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on with pride. A hardworking man, Bob spent his life as a knitting‑machine mechanic, a taxi driver, and later a school bus driver. He retired from the job he loved at the age of 81, grateful for the many years he was able to serve his community. He loved staying busy, serving others, and being part of the lives around him.

Bob leaves behind his “young bride” of 66 years, Lillian Galish Petfield, and his children: Daniel (Deborah), David (Toni), Rebecca (Gary), and Steven (Caren). He was the cherished grandfather of nine grandchildren and great‑grandfather of eight, with one more expected in September. He is also survived by his sister Louise, who resides in Colorado. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Robert Petfield Sr.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Bob finished his race with joy, worshiping Jesus until his final day. His legacy of faith, love, and steadfast devotion will continue to echo through the generations he leaves behind.

Family and friends are invited to Reach Church 294 Old Mamaroneck Road – White Plains, New York 10605 on Thursday, July 9, 2026 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM for visitation.  Funeral services will be held at Reach Church on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM.  Robert will be laid to rest in his family plot at The Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla with military honors following the funeral services.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made in Robert’s memory to either:

Pilgrim Camp

https://www.pilgrimcamp.net/donate.html

or

Racing with Jesus Ministries

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