Dr. Jesse Steadman "Bill" Robertson

Dr. Jesse Steadman “Bill” Robertson of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, was born December 11th, 1934, son of Jesse Steadman Robertson Sr. and Hilda Robertson Welch. He passed away Sunday, June 2nd, 2024 in New Smyrna Beach.

A native of New Smyrna Beach, Bill attended New Smyrna Beach High School.  He served in the Navy for three years beginning in 1952 and received his bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville University (J.U.). Bill met his beloved wife of 55 years, Shirley Joyce Harth at J.U. and they married on August 28, 1958.  Shirley preceded him in death in 2014.

Bill entered into a lifelong career in education, first teaching high school in Duval County. Upon being awarded a doctorate degree from the University of Florida, Bill became a professor of Biology at Jacksonville University, where he was named J.U. Professor of the Year in 1979, received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 1984, and was named to the list of five Distinguished Dolphins in 2010 for the school’s 75th Anniversary.  Bill served as Vice President for Academic affairs from 1987 until his retirement in 2001.

He was a talented artist who enjoyed painting as a hobby, often creating beautiful depictions of animals and places he loved.

Living relatives include his son Dan (Janice), and grandchildren Daniel (Julie) and Victoria (Michael).  Other cherished family members include brothers Clifton Robertson (Brenda), Alan Welch (Kathy), sister Sandra Wille and all of their families.

Also dear to Bill’s heart are members of his late wife’s family, including Dr. Brian Bergeron (Marlena), Leigh Anne Ard (Donnie), Bill Harth (Nanci), Kyle Harth, Dr. Kris Harth (Stephanie), and all extended family members.

Bill also leaves behind his close friend and companion, Rosemary Wofford, and thousands of former students and colleagues whom he considered family.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) are appreciated. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dr. Jesse Steadman "Bill" Robertson, please visit our floral store.