With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Robert Ames, 85, of Harrisburg, PA, widower of the late Daisy Ruth Ames, who passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2026.

Obituary

ROBERT MARTIN AMES, affectionately known as "Bobby," was born Sunday, April 17, 1941, in the Bronx, New York, to the late Kenneth Ames and Dorothy Bryant. He was one of two children born to his parents.

Robert spent much of his life growing up between the Bronx and Harlem, New York. He later attended Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, where he met his future wife, Daisy Nesmith. During his college years, Robert was a member of the basketball team that earned Benedict College its first Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) title. In recognition of this accomplishment, the team was inducted into the Benedict College Hall of Fame in 2011.

In 1965, Robert enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country for four years. Following his military service, he returned to New York and began a career as a New York City Housing Police Officer, faithfully serving the city for more than 20 years until his retirement.

Basketball remained one of Robert's greatest passions throughout his life. He often reminisced about his days playing at the Rucker in Harlem, at Benedict College, and during his military service. He especially enjoyed recalling the roar of the crowd and the excitement of being on the court. As he would say, "It made him feel alive and like a superstar!"

Outside of basketball, Robert enjoyed fishing, muscle cars, Caribbean food, slot machines, traveling with his wife, Daisy, and sending time surrounded by family. A devoted husband and family man, he especially treasured the time he shared with his grandchildren. Family and gatherings often included friendly competition and wagers started by Robert himself. Because of those special moments, ping pong, smelly and Nok Hockey will forever be remembered as Grandpa's games.

Robert was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who loved and protected his family fiercely and deeply. Throughout his life, he overcame many obstacles, demonstrating the resilience and determination that varied him through difficult times. He believed in finding solutions rather than giving up, and his strength and perseverance left a lasting impression on those around him.

On Sunday, October 11, 2026, Robert peacefully departed this life in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Ames and Dorothy Bryant; his wife, Daisy Ames; his sister, Phyllis Mandeville.

Robert leaves to honor and cherish his memory: his children, Sunada Roberts and Ayana Casey; his son-in-law, Michael Roberts; his grandchildren, Aidan, Joshua, Ian and Genesis; his sisters-in-law, Verlean McGill and Elizabeth Bynum; Laron Casey; along with other relatives and friends.

Robert's love for his family, his resilience and his believe in never giving up will remain an important part of his legacy. His life was a reflection of strength, determination and the love he shared with those closest to him.

Submitted with Love, Hope and Faith,

The Family of Robert Ames

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Kingstree, SC. 843-354-2292.