Robert James Fontana

Conway…..Robert James Fontana, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, went home to be with the Lord, from his cherished home in Conway on June 15, 2026 . Robert "Bob" was born on May 11, 1939 in Aliquippa, PA to Clara and Paul Fontana. Throughout his journey of 87 years, he touched many lives with his warm kindness, inviting humor, and servant heart. Bob lived a life of integrity, undergirded by his faith in Jesus and punctuated with compassion and laughter. His rich life was the product of a beautiful relationship with his wife and life-long love, Judith "Judy" New Fontana. He intentionally fostered deep, meaningful relationships within his family and church community, living out the biblical mandate to care for the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow. Bob cared for foster children, neighborhood children, widows in the community, and even wounded animals. In his early years, he served his country in the Army National Guard. He worked at Jones and Laughlin Steel Mill in Aliquippa, PA for 29 years and owned a musical instrument repair shop. After his retirement, Bob worked at Glendinning Products, LLC, Studebakers, and for many friends who needed anything built or repaired. Bob was a musician, a "Mr. Fix-it," and a friend. Two of his greatest joys were family and music. As a member of Tilly Swamp Baptist Church, Bob served as a deacon and church choir director for many years under the nickname, "Sweet Ole Bob." His legacy of music, hard work, humor, compassion, and integrity will remain within all who knew, loved, and respected him. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his daughter, Alyssa Jill Fontana; two sisters, Emma Jane Mraovich and Virginia "Bunky" Kwolek; and one brother, Charles Fontana. Bob is survived by Judy, his loving wife of 63 years; five daughters, Diane Fontana (Bob) Moore, Paula Fontana (Greg) Qualls, Nicole Fontana, Jessica Fontana (Joey) Dadetto, Bethany Fontana, one son, Michael Fontana (Stephanie). Bob, was known as "Happy" to his ten grandchildren; Makenzie (Rashord) Ling, Madison (Ashton) Harvey, Emily Jordan Qualls, Nathaniel Qualls, Elizabeth Qualls, Makai Lewis, Cruz Dadetto, Reese Dadetto, Eli Fontana, Evan Fontana, 2 great grandchildren, Amelia Harvey, and Judah Ling, many nieces and nephews, and his faithful dog, "Henry." Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday from Tilly Swamp Baptist Church, Conway SC with Pastor, Greg Qualls officiating. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Wednesday. Sign an online guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

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Robert James Fontana

May 11, 1939 - June 15, 2026