Dr. Robert R. Furlough

Dr. Robert “Bob” R. Furlough entered into heaven on March 25, 2025, at the age of 89, leaving behind a life defined by service, compassion, and unwavering devotion to God, family and community. Born on February 15, 1936, in Creswell, North Carolina, to Samuel and Myra Furlough.

A pioneer in the field of social work and mental health advocacy, Bob earned his bachelor of divinity from Southeastern Bible College before pursuing both his master’s and doctorate in Social Work and Child Development at Florida State University. His professional journey began with the Sarasota Department of Welfare and Florida State Hospital’s Social Services Department.

In 1964, Bob became the first Executive Director of the Children’s Home Society of Florida, where he guided families through the adoption process and taught in the School of Social Work at FSU. In 1969, he was appointed Director of the Mental Health Division at the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. There, he played a critical role in drafting the landmark Baker Act, passed in 1972, which reformed mental health care across Florida.

He continued his advocacy for children’s health and well-being as Director of the Children’s Medical Services Program from 1980 until his retirement in 2000.

Bob found joy in many things beyond his career: playing the trumpet, singing and playing in the church orchestra, golfing, softball, relaxing by the beach, and caring for animals. He had a fondness for convertible automobiles, and but most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith. For many years, he was also the beloved voice of the Godby Cougar Football team, lending his enthusiastic spirit to Friday night lights. In addition to his public service, Bob owned and operated several small businesses, including a pawn shop and a pet store.

He is preceded in death by his wife of fifty-three years, Louise Furlough, and his daughter, Dayna Furlough-Ray.

He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Furlough; children: Robert Furlough Jr., Darinda McLaughlin (Rusty), and Stanley Furlough; stepchildren: Lavonda Till (John) and Andrea Spratt (Trey); and beloved grandchildren: Casey McLaughlin (Katerina), Kayla Smith (Joshua), Ashley Furlough, Destin Furlough-Ray, Ramsey Furlough-Ray, Myra Furlough-Ray, Isabella Furlough-Ray, Jordan Griffith, Emily Griffith, Kaleb Spratt, Kyle Spratt and Kolby Spratt. Grandbob was awaiting the arrival of his first great-grandchild, expected in September.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 700 Timberlane Road.

In honoring Bob’s memory, we remember a man whose life’s work brought light and hope to others—and whose greatest joy was found in the love of his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Project and Big Bend Hospice.