Robert M. Beagle

Robert (“Bob”) McClellan Beagle of Wakefield, RI, passed away after a brief illness on April 26, 2025. He, the only son of Hurley and Revelessa Beagle, was born on November 10, 1943, in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

Bob was a 1965 graduate of Dickinson College where he earned his degree in political science. He later obtained a graduate degree in communication from Penn State University (the second love of his life). His distinguished career in higher education included roles as a faculty member and debate coach at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, where he later became Vice President in 1982. In 1987, he was named Vice Chancellor of the Minnesota State University System. In 1991, he was appointed Vice President of Advancement at the University of Rhode Island, a position he held until his retirement in 2012. Following retirement, he remained active in the community, serving on the Board of Trustees for South County Hospital.

A lifelong learner and passionate supporter of education, Bob was also an avid reader, a devoted fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, and a regular attendee of URI sporting events. He took immense pride in attending his grandchildren's activities, from athletic competitions to theater and musical performances.

Bob is survived by his wife, Gerri Beagle; his two sons, Jonathan Beagle (Deborah) of East Longmeadow, MA, and Christopher Beagle (Marisa) of Wakefield, RI; his stepdaughter, Cara Cormier (Raymond) of Hope Valley, RI; and his former wife, Kirsten French. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Ryan Cormier, William and Emma Beagle, and Brady, Greyson, and Hayden Beagle.

Visitation for Bob will be held Friday, May 2, 2025, from 4 to 6 PM with a service at 5:30 in the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield, RI.

His warmth, humor and dedication to family, friends, and education leave a lasting legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Beagle Family Endowment, c/o URI Foundation and Alumni Engagement, 79 Upper College Road, Kingston, RI 02881 or a charity of your choice.