Robert Francis Willis

Robert Francis Willis

August 2, 1937 – December 23, 2025

Robert (Bob) Willis passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at his home, with his beloved wife, Gloria, by his side. He is survived by his wife, Gloria Willis; his stepson, Dr. Scott Wottrich and his wife Emily; his stepdaughter, Kelly Proudfit and her husband William. Bob is also remembered fondly by his nieces, nephew, and cousins. He leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Alya, Robby, Tucker, Camden, and Audrey, who will hold his memory close to their hearts.

A prolific worldwide travel writer and award-winning photographer, Bob served as Deputy Tourism Director for the State of Maryland and Tourism Director for the Baltimore Office of Promotion and Tourism during Baltimore’s famous renaissance.

Bob was born in Baltimore on August 2, 1937, to Edward Willis and Grace Ditman. He grew up between the early days of WW II and the era of John Waters “Hairspray.” Drawing from his childhood in the Govans neighborhood, he penned a memoir,“Balamer’s a Great Place to Grow up in…(Hon)!”, that reflects his upbringing during these transformative years in Baltimore. His writing offers insights into the cultural and historical context of the city, capturing the spirit of the times that influenced his life and career.

Many of Bob’s fondest memories came from spending summers with his sister Marilyn and eight cousins on his grandparents' farm in Dover, Delaware. The 1800s farmhouse didn’t have electricity, indoor plumbing or gas. Saturday night bathing was accomplished with a dip in a large rainwater-filled tank. Another fond memory was playing saxophone in the Colt’s marching band during the “Greatest Game ever Played” against the New York Giants at Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium (dubbed “The World’s Largest Outdoor Insane Asylum”).

Bob was an alumnus of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and Baltimore Junior College, where he pursued studies in Radio, TV, Speech, and Drama. His passion for media and communication led him to produce and host “Going Places,” recognized as the nation’s original television travel show, presented by the Baltimore Sun Papers.

As an accomplished author, Bob wrote guidebooks for both Fodors and Globe Pequot Press. His enthusiasm for travel and photography took him to every continent, where he captured memorable images that garnered several prestigious awards, including honors from the Chesapeake Bay Photo Contest and the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) international Bill Muster competition.

Bob was dedicated to the travel writing community, being an active member of SATW for 50 years and also participating in the International Wine, Food, and Travel Association. His commitment to advancing tourism in his hometown was further demonstrated by founding the Baltimore Tourism Association. He achieved professional certifications as a Certified Travel Professional (CTP) and Certified Travel Marketing Executive (CTME).

Bob’s love for acting and the theatre was a significant part of his life. He performed in numerous productions at the Baltimore Actors Theatre, taking on roles in well-known plays such as Kismet, Panama Hattie, Peter Pan, Bells are Ringing, Pal Joey, and Pygmalion. His talent and enthusiasm for the stage were evident in each performance, reflecting his dedication to the arts.

Beyond the theatre, Bob also made appearances in film and television. He portrayed a doctor in John Waters film Female Trouble and appeared in Joseph Sheppard’s film The Block. Additionally, Bob was cast in two episodes of the television series Route 66.

In 1995, Bob relocated from Baltimore to Phoenix, where he met Gloria (Garland) in Scottsdale, Arizona. This meeting marked the start of a love not only for Gloria, but also for the American West. Bob developed a deep passion for Native American and western history, themes that became central to his writing and photography. In 1997, Bob and Gloria married in Sedona, Arizona, and began a new chapter together as a photo and travel writing team. Their collaborative spirit carried them to destinations across the globe, including Thailand, Bermuda, Alaska, Fiji, Chile, Patagonia, the Sea of Cortés, Mexico, Canada, the Yucatan, as well as many U.S. states and cities. Their stories and photographs were widely published in magazines and newspapers, reflecting their shared enthusiasm and talent. Bob furthered his engagement with the region’s heritage by becoming a member of Western Writers of America and The Westerners.

In 2017, Gloria and Bob decided to move from Fort Collins, Colorado, to Houston, Pennsylvania, to be closer to family. Those who knew Bob best—friends, family, and loved ones—remember him as a man of intelligence and adventure, with a gentle spirit that touched everyone around him. He was also known for his culinary skills, especially his renowned salsa recipe. Gloria affectionately referred to Bob as her “Renaissance Man,” a testament to his wide-ranging talents and interests. This past Thanksgiving, Bob and Gloria celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary in the company of their family, toasting to nearly three decades of love and partnership.

Plans are being made to honor Bob’s memory with a celebration of his life at a future date. Friends and family will be invited to come together to pay tribute, share stories, and reflect on the ways Bob touched their lives. Information will be provided once arrangements are finalized.

As an animal lover, donations in memory of Bob can be made to the Washington Area Humane Societywww.washingtonpashelter.org or mailed to WAHS, PO Box 66, Eighty Four, PA 15330.

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