Robert Young Jr. was born October 10, 1933, in Cleveland, OH to his parents Robert Sr., and Dorothy Sanders Young (who preceded him in death.) He was raised in Chicago, IL.  He was the second oldest of four children. His sisters,

Marion Edgerson and Juanita Jones preceded him in death.

Robert met Delores Mae Woods in 1956, they were united in Holy Matrimony on May 27, 1961. To this union, they were blessed with four children. They remained married for 55 years, until the Lord called his wife home in 2015.

Robert joined the United States Air Force at the age of 17 years old. After four years of service, he received an Honorable Discharge. After several years of employment, Robert retired from the City of Cleveland, Division of Streets, as a “Heavy Equipment Operator.”

Robert’s (known as “Junior”), passion for baseball was evident from a young age, and he excelled as a pitcher. His skill and speed earned him the nickname “Rapid Robert.” He played with teams at Wood Hill Park and throughout the communities.  After retiring from playing, he decided to coach young men in the Saint Henry’s league, sharing his knowledge and love for the game. The boys learned how to throw a ball, hit a fast ball, and steal bases. His coaching, along with his friend Robert Chapman, led their team to several championships, and he took pride in seeing the boys grow in confidence and skill.

Aside from baseball, Robert enjoyed various other activities. He loved shooting pool, roller skating, and bowling with his wife in leagues and tournaments with the V.A. Hospital across different states. He was part of a group called “The Cleveland Oldtimers” that organized cabarets to raise funds for trips. The backyard was where Robert Jr. played catch with a baseball mitt in hand with his sons and grandsons. The backyard was his ministry, so many young men came to learn how to keep pushing forward and never give up or give in. He also engaged them in friendly competition, challenging others in games like spades, bid whist, tunk, horseshoes, and jacks. If you sat at the table to play, you better bring your “A” game. Through these activities, he taught others the value of perseverance and always striving to be the best.

Robert was a man of a few words, but when he spoke, they listened. He laughed and joked with most. He was a quiet thunder, had a loud roar, had a great sense of humor. He was a loving and devoted husband, a protector and provider for his family. He will be sorely missed by all those he had contact with. He was and always will be a loving and loyal husband, an amazing father (Dad) shown through his love, strength, and leadership to his children and an honest and loyal friend.

He leaves to cherish his memory; sister, Cynthia Young, five children: Joseph Young, Valencia Matthews, Rhonda Young, Robert Young III, Rodney Young Sr. (Treva); Grandchildren: Frank Bradley IV, Sheridan Pilkington Jr., Christopher Lardie, Brittany Young, Rodney Young Jr. and Joshua Young, Great Grandchildren: Frank Bradley V, Daijah Smith and Calvin Surrell and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.