Robert Jordan McIlwain

Robert Jordan McIlwain, 57, of Hopewell, Virginia, passed away unexpectedly. He was the son of the late Col. Jimmie Joe McIlwain and Gloria McIlwain. Known to friends and family as Bob, he was a man of sharp wit, deep loyalty, and an encyclopedic knowledge of movies, heavy metal music, and football.

Bob was a graduate of Hopewell High School and went on to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration in Management Science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He was a proud brother of Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships. He later pursued studies in information technology and programming, building a career in software quality assurance and IT.

Bob also served as a high school mathematics teacher and tutor, bringing his analytical mind to the classroom. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Virginia Tech Hokies, and never tired of arguing for smashmouth football. His love of Metallica was legendary, as was his ability to recite entire scenes from his favorite films. He enjoyed chess, fantasy literature, and the company of good friends over a cold beer. He was always ready with a joke.

He is survived by his mother, Gloria McIlwain; brothers, Richard McIlwain and Ronald McIlwain; cousins, Karen Giglio (husband Sal), Daniel Giglio, and James Dietz; and aunt, Irene Dietz. Bob also leaves behind many dear friends, especially his fraternity brother, Dustin Warwick, whose friendship enriched his final years.

Bob will be remembered for his humor and his intellect.