Robert A. Barr, Jr.

Robert A. Barr Jr., formerly of Swarthmore, died on October 7, 2021, at Foulkeways at Gwynedd, of complications during treatment for cancer. He was 87.

Bob was the son of the late Robert and Adelaide Barr. He grew up primarily in New Jersey but lived in the Chicago area long enough to become a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs. He graduated from Swarthmore College in 1956 and earned a Master of Arts degree in American studies at the University of Pennsylvania in 1961.

Bob had a long career in college administration, serving as the dean of men (1962-1970) and the dean of admissions (1977-1994) at Swarthmore College. He also worked at Chatham College as assistant to the president (1970-1973) and at Dickinson College as the dean of educational services (1973-1977). Bob found genuine pleasure in working with students. Many of those he admitted became good friends while they were at Swarthmore and remained in touch long after they graduated. Bob particularly enjoyed his time as faculty advisor to the Swarthmore College men’s tennis team.

What was true about Bob in the admissions office was also true of him in all his relationships; to know him was, with very few well-earned exceptions, to be welcomed into his friendship and his company and that of his beloved wife Nony.

In retirement, Bob enjoyed traveling and spending time on Cape Cod and Sanibel Island. He loved classical music, attending concerts of the Philadelphia Orchestra regularly for over 30 years. He and Nony also volunteered at Swarthmore College’s Scott Arboretum. After moving to Foulkeways, Bob served on its board of directors, and on the  Germantown Friends School’s school committee. 

Bob was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Eleanor (Nony) Barr; two sons, Richard (Kristin Davitt) and Jeffrey (Katy Hawkins); four grandsons (Matthew, Kellan, David, and Elliot); and brother David W. Barr (Donna). He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Foulkeways at a later date.

Those who would like to make a contribution in Bob’s memory may make a gift to the Robert A. Barr Jr. Scholarship at Swarthmore College, a fund established in his honor by a group of Swarthmore College alumni. Checks should be made payable to Swarthmore College (with “Robert A. Barr Jr. scholarship” in the memo line), and mailed to Swarthmore College, Attn: Gift Records, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA 19081.