Robert M. Prioleau ’55

Bob died May 7, 2024, in his hometown of Charleston, S.C. 

After graduation from Princeton, Harvard Business School, and four years in the Navy, Bob spent 35 years as a chemical engineer with Exxon. He retired and became active in civic, religious, and community affairs. He was chairman, president, board member, or active participant with groups focused on the homeless, the blind, church vestries, Huguenot history, a nature center, historic preservation, two yacht clubs, a racquet club, and a library society, among several others. He loved to sketch and paint, was an avid sailor, skier, tennis player, bird hunter, follower of the symphony, and lover of dogs (especially dachshunds) and anything flavored with coffee or chocolate.

Bob was born Jan. 23, 1934, in The Hague, Netherlands, where his father was employed by an affiliate of what became Exxon. At the onset of World War II, the family returned to their traditional home in Charleston. Bob attended high school at Woodberry Forest, where he excelled in soccer and was editor-in-chief of The Talon, the school’s literary publication.

At Princeton, he joined Cottage Club and majored in chemical engineering. He won freshman and JV letters in crew and was a Chapel deacon and co-head cheerleader. Senior year he roomed with Frank Mountcastle, Michael Menge ’56, and Major Reynolds. During junior year, Bob met his future wife, Pat, at a social event and learned she was leading tours at the UN headquarters in New York City. A few days later he showed up for her tour and in 1956 they were married.

Bob is survived by Patricia; children Charles, Robert, and Caroline; and three grandchildren.