Robert Powell Fields, DMD

Robert Powell Fields of Fleming Island, Florida, passed away Monday, July 31, 2023. Robert was born on April 24, 1957, in Johnson City, Tennessee to the late Robert E. Fields, Jr and Janis Fields Cagle. He graduated as Valedictorian from Battery Creek High School, received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee, obtained his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida, completed his Orthodontic residency at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, as well as obtained a Master of Education from the University of Southern California. Robert served our country in the United States Navy as a LCDR and was deployed with the U.S. Marines in Japan. He had a 40-year career in dentistry, during which time he served as President of the Clay County Dental Society and volunteered at the Clay County Public Health Dental Clinic in Green Cove Springs. He was a member of the Orange Park United Methodist Church where he served on the Board of Trustees.

Robert is survived by the love of his life, Judy Higginbotham Fields. They were married on February 25, 1989, and they have three children, Kyle Austin Fields, Christina (Benny) Jones, John (Sarah) Sawyer and five grandchildren, Gabriella Sawyer, Kennedy Sawyer, Piper Sawyer, Phoebe Sawyer and Jaden Jones. He is also survived by his mother, Janis Cagle; brother, Lee (Jennifer) Fields and sister, Kim Coughlin; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

Robert’s love for his family exceeded all things. He used every opportunity as a chance to teach, always imparting his knowledge and wisdom to everyone he cared about. He influenced so many with his unwavering principles, constant encouragement, and thoughtful insight. He was the ultimate planner and family organizer. His love of travel, which he generously shared with his family, provided endless fun, many adventures, and countless cherished memories. He was the Rock of the Family. Robert was an avid sports fan and loved the LA Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Florida Gators, and Jacksonville Jaguars. He enjoyed softball, swimming, tennis, and most recently loved playing pickleball.

He left a lasting imprint on the lives of many and will be missed by everyone who knew him. In the words of Rob, Later Gator!

The family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Monday, August 7, 2023 in the Broadus-Raines Chapel.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at Orange Park United Methodist Church with Dr. Charles Lever officiating and burial with military honors will follow at 2:30pm at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society   https://donate.cancer.org and Haven Hospice   https://beyourhaven.org/donate/