Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

May 30, 2024

CHARLOTTE – Robert Lansing Pharr, 70, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away suddenly on Thursday, May 30, 2024.  A beloved spouse, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Rob’s absence will be keenly felt by his many loved ones.  He was born in Greenville, South Carolina on October 30, 1953, to the late Robert Heard Pharr and Dorothy LeRoy Pharr.

Rob grew up in Lexington, North Carolina and graduated from Lexington High School in 1972. He was proud to be part of the school’s tennis team and was a member of Youth Council of North Carolina.  Rob attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated in 1976 with a degree in American History.  It was at UNC that he became an active member of the Chi Psi Fraternity and met many life-long friends, as well as his wife, Lisa.  He also was a Co-Chair of the Carolina Symposium while there and a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece.  After graduating, Rob began his investment career at Smith Barney in Charlotte.  He went on to found WestEnd Advisors with his business partner, John Black, where he acted as Chief Investment Officer. 

Lisa and Rob married in 1980 and welcomed their son, Alex, five years later.  Rob was a loving father and was overjoyed to become a grandfather to Alex’s two children. Miri and Ezra will miss their “RoRo” dearly.  Rob also adored the dogs that joined the family through the years, including Arlo, the German Wirehaired Pointer who remains at Lisa’s side.

In his free time, he took great joy in classic cars, and cheering on his beloved Tar Heels in various sports.  Rob enjoyed spending time at the coast, whether it was during many family vacations to Caswell Beach or on sailing trips with his friends.  He could also be a bit of a card shark, sometimes leading to especially competitive games of Hearts with family members.  After his retirement, Rob took up trap shooting and became a member of the Charlotte Rifle and Pistol Club.

Rob’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to all the friends and family who have surrounded them with love and support during this difficult time.

Rob is survived by his wife, Lisa Pharr; his son, Robert Alexander Pharr and his wife, Alexis and grandchildren, Miriam and Ezra.  He was predeceased by his dear sister, Linda Pharr, of Richmond, Virginia.  Rob will also be sorely missed by his extended family members, including the Howell family of Atlanta, Georgia, and the MacEntee family of Raleigh, North Carolina.

A celebration honoring Rob’s life will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on Monday, June 24, 2024, at the Duke Mansion, 400 Hermitage Road in Charlotte.

Memorials may be offered in Rob’s memory to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, 500-B Spratt Street, Charlotte, NC 28206 or Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region, PO Box 220287, Charlotte, NC 28222.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.