Robert Allen Southern

Robert Allen Southern (Bob), age 88, of Pittsboro, North Carolina died Saturday, December 29, 2018 at The Arbor at Galloway Ridge.

Bob was born in Jackson County, Missouri, on July 17, 1930 to the late James Allen Southern and Josephine Ragland Southern. He was also preceded in death by his wife Cindy Southern and brother John Southern.

Inspired to become a lawyer by his grandfather, Judge Allen C. Southern of the Federal Court for the Western District of Missouri, Bob led the global law firm, Mayer Brown, as its Managing Partner during a period of significant growth for the firm. He served as trustee for The Rush University Medical Center, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association and the Kenilworth Union Church, as well as being an active member of the Kenilworth School Board for many years. He was also an inspiring coach for his children – both on and off the “field.”

Bob is survived by three sons: Dave Southern and wife Christie of Winnetka, Illinois, Bill Southern and wife Carrie of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jim Southern and wife Lisa of Raleigh, North Carolina; and daughter: Kathy O’Brien and husband Tim of Grayslake, Illinois. He is also survived by twelve grandchildren: Graham, Scott, Tim and wife Shaune, Patrick, Emily Drees and husband Mac, Kendall Miltz and husband Wayne, Spencer, Reid, Truman, Kevin, Andy, and Maggie; and two great-grandchildren: Wyatt and Isaac.

A Private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bob’s memory to The Kenilworth Union Church, 211 Kenilworth Avenue, Kenilworth, IL 60043, kuc.org.

Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals.com

Donaldson Funeral Home & Cremation is honored to serve the Southern family.