Rev. Robert Hazlett Speer, Jr.

Robert Hazlett Speer, Jr. May 31, 1939 – February 15, 2026 Robert Speer was born and raised in Montana. He was an Episcopal minister, Army chaplain and teacher. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history and philosophy from the University of Montana in 1961 and was ordained at Seabury Western Theological Seminary in 1964. He then joined the Army, feeling that the soldiers serving in Vietnam were in need of spiritual guidance and support. After earning his jump wings, he immediately deployed to Vietnam and served all faiths as “the Flying Chaplain” in the 101st Airborne Division. His 20 years in the Army also included tours in Berlin and Korea. After retiring from the military, he served at several Baltimore Episcopal churches while teaching philosophy and religion as an adjunct professor at Towson University, Loyola University and local community colleges until 2020. He was a Priest Associate at Grace and St. Peter's Church in Baltimore for 25 years and recently celebrated 60 years of ministry. Robert was a Renaissance man. A lifelong musician, he started as a concert oboist and later studied the great Highland bagpipes and the Indian Bansuri flute. He wrote many folk songs and could play any tune by ear on the guitar or piano. He was a nature lover and Eagle Scout, which stemmed from his growing up in the woods of Montana. An avid skydiver, he logged over 700 sport parachute jumps. He was a true scholar who quoted classic works and related them to the current state of the world at a moment’s notice. His vocabulary was unmatched, yet he maintained a perfect balance between intellect and humility. He obtained three master’s degrees and studied towards a PhD in Jewish Philosophy. He authored three books: Letters from Jim (historical fiction from Vietnam); Just Philosophy: No Bells, No Whistles (an academic publication of his study guides); and This Thy Holy Habitation (essays celebrating Grace and St. Peter’s Church). A lifelong yogi, Bobby received his YTT-500 certification later in life and led a weekly class exploring classic Indian scripture over the last five years. An avid Orioles and Ravens fan, he always answered the phone with “Go O’s” or “Go Ravens.” Robert was a loving human to all. Friends and family will remember him as present, reverent, loyal, attentive, focused, steady, selfless, consistent, altruistic, charitable, witty, and a quiet leader and anchor. He carried old wisdom with fresh curiosity. He viewed everyone, including himself, on the same level. He created space for people to be the best versions of themselves. He was a bright light and often reminded us to keep our light shining. And when it goes out, to turn it back on. He is survived by his brother Tom (Donna), son Larry (Janice), daughter Cate (Jeff), son Ben, son Matt (Jacqui), son David (Diana), grandchildren Nolan, Sam, Gabe, Audrey and Reier, nephew Andy (Rebecca), nephew Colin, grandnephew Hudson and former wives Lorraine Combs and Donna Kirshbaum. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Robert’s memory to Grace and St. Peter’s Church’s Outreach Ministry for those in need or to the charity of your choice. Website for livestreaming the service: www.facebook.com/graceandstpeters

Rev. Robert Hazlett Speer, Jr.

May 31, 1939 - February 15, 2026