Robert Benjamin Brewington, Sr.

Robert Benjamin Brewington, Sr., affectionately known as “Ben,” entered eternal rest surrounded by love and legacy. He was born on August 10, 1935, in Pikeville, Wayne County, North Carolina, to Cora Estelle Aycock and William Robert Spruiell. At the age of 4, he was lovingly adopted and raised, by his stepfather, Alonzo Brewington, who gave him his name and nurtured him as his own, along side his mother. Robert grew up in Faison, North Carolina, where he was a bright, curious, and determined young man. Though raised as an only child, he shared a close bond with his cousins and his beloved dog, Queen. He attended Faison grade schools and later graduated as valedictorian from Douglas High School in Warsaw, North Carolina. A gifted student with an inquisitive mind. Robert also enjoyed playing basketball and valued education deeply. In 1955, Robert married the love of his life, Vivian Goodman. Together they built a beautiful life and legacy, raising six children and instilling in them the values of faith, discipline, and hard work. Early in their marriage, Robert worked in the granaries of Calypso and Mount Olive, often walking miles from Faison to ensure his family was provided for. In 1957, the family relocated to Greensboro, North Carolina, where Robert worked in the family taxi business, proudly driving McCray Taxi #29 under the ownership of his father William Spruiell. Over the years, he held many roles, including laborer at Southeast Building, limousine driver for the airport, employee at Wachovia Bank, and co-owner of B&P Janitorial Service with his cousin Willie Robert. Later in life, he worked at Wysong as security and also at Sears Warehouse and Walmart. His dedication and strong work ethic earned him a janitorial contract with Wachovia Bank, servicing multiple buildings throughout the area. That same unwavering work ethic continues to shine through generations of his family. Robert was an active member of South English Street Church of Christ, now Sharpe Road Church of Christ. He also worshiped at Northside Church of Christ in Burlington, North Carolina, where he served under the leadership of his son, Evangelist R. B. Brewington, Jr. A moment of deep pride for both father and son. Robert found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan, loved sweets, and enjoyed listening to the soulful music of B.B. King. Friday nights often found him watching wrestling or boxing, and anyone who knew him remembers his love for cards; whether dominating a game of spades and tonk or quietly playing solitaire. Many evenings were spent playing softball with his children and neighborhood youth, moments his family will always treasure. He was a devoted provider and teacher to his children. As they often say, “Daddy meant business,” but they all agree even more strongly, “Daddy loved us.” Robert was a cherished grandfather and patriarch, lovingly guiding more than 21 grandchildren, 35 greatgrandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. He is survived by his daughters, Lina Brewington-Glenn and Cynthia Chapman (Jeffery Chapman Sr.); his sons, Robert Brewington, Jr. (Karen Brewington), and Christopher Brewington (Lynette Brewington); and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vivian Brewington; stepfather, Alonzo Brewington; his father, William Spruiell; his mother, Cora Estelle Aycock; his son, Curvin Alexander Brewington; his daughter, Odenia Delaine “Cookie” Hamilton; his granddaughter, Keisha Brewington; his grandsons, Shaun Hamilton and Ahmad Brewington; and his great-granddaughter, Jakyia Brewington. Robert Benjamin Brewington Sr’s life was one of love, perseverance, faith, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed yet forever cherished.

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