BURGAW — Robert Lamar Ireland, 76, of Burgaw and formerly of California, known and loved as both Bob and Lamar, passed peacefully from his earthly life Monday, February 2, 2026 at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington.
Lamar was born at home May 19, 1949 in Pamlico County, North Carolina, the son of Clifton Odell Ireland, Sr. and Mildred Louise Smith Richardson. In addition to his parents Lamar was preceded in death by his brother, Cliff Ireland, Jr.
Lamar is survived by his son and daughter in law, Lamar and Lisa Ireland; daughter, Georgette Thomas; granddaughter, Jalena Thomas; sisters, Nelda Illick and Jennifer Boothe; several nieces and nephews.
Lamar retired after 39 years as manager at The Kitchen Store in Los Angeles, California. He moved to Burgaw, NC and bought a house locally. His life was cut short with a diagnosis of lung cancer, but he fought the good fight and never complained.
He really enjoyed his last six years in Burgaw, especially the last three and a half years when he started going to Heritage House (Pender Adult Services) Senior Center. He met some truly great folks, especially his “girlfriends”. He ate lunch there everyday and played table games and also enjoyed playing at the Burgaw Town Center. Every night he would go over to his sisters, Nelda and Jen’s home to enjoy Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy and other programs. He loved Burgaw and enjoyed all the activities, including the Silent Auction Fundraiser, Mayor’s Formal Gala, Summer Concerts on the Square, Breakfast with Santa, 4th of July parade on his electric three wheel bike decked out in red, white and blue, and many other events. He met everyone with a hearty “How the hell are you?” and “I’m doing damn good!” He told folks he was having the best time of his life. Truly one of a kind and Lamar will be missed by many.
Lamar also loved spending time with his son, Lamar. Whether in California when his son would come to visit him or at his son’s home in NJ where he loved to go to the casinos. In the past six years his son would come to Burgaw a few times a year to spend time together. Lamar loved to take them to all his favorite places. They really enjoyed hanging out watching movies and just talking. Lamar was his son’s biggest fan. They had a very special bond and even shared the same sense of humor. Lamar will forever live on in our hearts.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Following the gathering of family and friends at the funeral home there will be a reception at Pender Adult Services, 901 S. Walker Street, until 4:00 p.m.
Lamar’s family suggest that you consider a memorial gift in memory of Lamar to Pender Adult Services, PO Box 1251, Burgaw, NC 28425. The Senior Center was very near and dear to Lamar’s heart.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
