If you’d like to make a donation to help offset the funeral costs and support Robert’s family during this difficult time, please do so here.
Robert Yarbrough passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones at the hospital on March 29, 2026. Robert was beloved by many friends and family including those of us lucky enough to share the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood with him.
If you used to walk past his house on Newton St, chances are Robert greeted you from his perch on the stoop with a wave or friendly hello. Or, maybe, you got to know Robert from his days working at Stoddard Baptist Home, Sportsman’s, or even from the many years he spent growing up with his family on Newton Street. Robert was kind, humble, smart, funny, and compassionate. He didn’t shy away from striking up a conversation and catching up on the latest news with his friends and neighbors. He always asked how someone was doing with genuine care and he was quick to ease the burdens of a stressful day for a friend.
Growing up on Newton Street didn’t always come easy, but Robert made the best of everything. He had a rich life and enjoyed many years with his devoted and loving wife Lula. He was a proud father to his beloved, late son Shawn; he lit up when talking about his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; and he was a caring son to his late mother. In addition, he cared deeply about his community and was, by all accounts, our neighborhood steward uniting us through a shared love for our community.
In the last few years of life Robert overcame hardships. He courageously fought cancer and was displaced from his home by a fire. Robert and Lula settled not far from Mt. Pleasant in Adams Morgan after the fire, but their connection to the community remained strong. Robert could still be seen driving down the block, catching up with neighbors, and enjoying the simple things in life. Robert liked listening to music, watching movies, spending time with family, cheering on his Commanders football team, enjoying a good burger (without lettuce), and keeping his car in good shape. Robert will be dearly missed by all his loved ones and the lives he touched – in small and big ways. May Robert’s memory be a blessing, and may his legacy continue to thrive on Newton Street.