Bob Nugent, Chi’s ‘Mr. Everything,’ dies at 93

Robert D. Nugent, 93, of Upper Chichester passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born in Chester to the late James and Margaret Anderson Nugent. He attended St. Robert’s School and later went on to graduate from St. James High School with the class of 1943. He was a veteran of the United States Army where he served in WWII with the 17th Airborne Division, Company C 513th parachute Infantry. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and went on to receive numerous citations and decorations including, 3 Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal, WWII Victory Medal and a Purple Heart. After returning from the war, he graduated from West Chester University and went on to teach at many different levels for 43 years in the Chichester School District. Nuge became “Mr. Everything” at Chichester. He coached football, softball, and was the head coach of the Boys Basketball program for 17 years. He served as a class advisor, was active in the band association, and was the voice of Chichester football at the home games for many years. He was a mentor and he spent countless hours coaching, advising and developing life-long friendships with many of his students.

Nuge was a past-president and active member of the St. James Alumni Association. At St. James, he was the defensive coordinator of the football team for 23 years. He later went on to coach Men’s Basketball at Neumann University. He was a devoted and active parishioner at Holy Saviour Church for over 50 years, and most recently at St. John Fisher Church. He was a man of great faith. He served his parishes as a Eucharistic minister, Lector and in many other capacities. He also taught bible study for many years at the Church of the Holy Child in Wilmington, DE.

Nuge was an avid sports fan. He was inducted as a distinguished member of the Delaware County Athletes Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Marcus Hook Old Timers Association. He was a fan of the Phillies and as a member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches for 52 years, he attended over 40 NCAA Final 4 Championships.

In his later years, he enjoyed writing. He especially enjoyed texting his TGIF and Hump day messages to a large distribution group. Nuge was highly respected in the Chichester Community and really was a legend in his own time. He was honored by the Chichester School District for his years of service by having the High School Gymnasium named for him. He lived a life of humor, love and kindness to all. His love of people spanned many generations and cultures. Overall, he was a man of humility and great faith and he loved his God.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by sisters, Margaret and Gertrude; brothers, Lawrence and James. He is survived by his long-time companion Patricia Oakes and her son, Christian Oakes; 5 Grandchildren; the entire Oakes family; Many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. A special thanks to his caregivers over the last several months, the Oakes family, Alan Cini, Sandy Trainor, and Kristiina Ahlfors.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 11th at 10:30am. Friends and family are invited to his viewing on Monday evening from 5-9pm at the Chichester High School Gymnasium, and again on Tuesday morning at St. John Fisher Church from 8:30-10:15. Burial will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery, Linwood.

Online condolences can be sent to Jwardfuneralhome.com.