Rev. Robert H. Hett, Sr., better known as Pastor Bob, passed away on May 5, 2023 at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center after a brief illness complicated by Parkinson’s Disease. He was the devoted husband of Donna Hett (Smith) for nearly 62 years, and caring pastor to many people in communities all over the country, from the northern tip of Maine to southern California.
Bob attended Portsmouth High School in New Hampshire and was a member of the chorus. His tenor voice quality and range were exceptional, and he was selected to attend the All-State and All-Eastern Choruses. He graduated from Berkshire Christian College in 1962.
Pastor Bob incorporated his love of Christian music into his ministry, traveling with an evangelistic team quartet, leading music at camp and revival meetings, serving as music director at each of his pastorates, and bringing renowned Christian music groups to the communities he served.
More than anything, Pastor Bob wanted people to know Jesus Christ and have a personal relationship with Him. He preached the Bible faithfully, cared for people compassionately, and prayed with and for others constantly. Bob was known as a gentle, loving, and positive ambassador of Jesus Christ.
He is also remembered for his fondness for the Boston Red Sox and baseball in general. He served as chaplain for two minor league baseball teams and enjoyed following the young men throughout their careers.
Pastor Bob’s surviving wife, children, grandchildren, and other family and friends are grateful that Bob followed God’s call, serving the Lord faithfully until the end. His favorite hymn truly represents his life: “All the way my Savior leads me; Oh, the fullness of His love! Perfect rest to me is promised in my Father’s house above: When my spirit, cloth’d immortal, Wings its flight to realms of day, This my song thru endless ages: Jesus led me all the way.” (All the Way my Savior Leads Me – Fanny Crosby – Public Domain)
A Memorial Service will be held on May 27, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Seacoast Community Church, 397 Lafayette Rd. in Portsmouth, NH, and livestreamed on the website (SCCNH.com). In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Vernon Homes, where his wife Donna continues to reside, 61 Greenway Dr., Vernon, VT 05354.
