Robert Leroy Firestone

Robert Leroy Firestone, 87, of Moyock, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his residence on June 9, 2026. Born in 1939 in Erie, Pennsylvania, Robert spent his early years in Erie before proudly serving in the United States Navy. During his life, he raised a family, owned a dairy farm, and later became a truck driver, earning the nickname “Hay Dude” along the way.

A talented craftsman and entrepreneur, Robert eventually founded his own sandblasting business, where he restored old tractors, trailers, and trucks. Known by many as “Hay Dude,” “Tractor Man,” and simply “Mr. Firestone,” he was admired for his strong work ethic, creativity, and remarkable ability to engineer and design solutions for any project. If something needed to be built, repaired, or improved, Robert could usually find a way.

Of all the titles he held throughout his life, the ones that meant the most to him were Husband, Dad, and Grandpa. Robert was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters, his stepson, James Harless, and his grandson, Carl Brango. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Hallie Firestone, with whom he shared 37 wonderful years of marriage. Together they blended and built a loving family. Robert is also survived by his four children; Edward, Joe, Jeff, and Kelly, three step-children; Alvin, Donald and Tabitha, 16 grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Robert’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the countless projects that bear the mark of his skillful hands. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

“A life well lived leaves a lasting imprint on the hearts of those left behind.”

The family warmly invites all who knew and loved Robert to join them in celebrating his life on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM. The Celebration of Life will be held at 181 Guinea Road, Moyock, NC 27958. We welcome family and friends to gather, share memories, and honor the life and legacy of Robert Leroy Firestone. Following the service, we invite everyone to stay, share memories, and celebrate Robert’s life together. This will be a potluck gathering, and guests are welcome to bring a favorite dish to share.  Please share expressions of sympathy with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.