Robert Haywood Obituary, Cause of Death; San Francisco Man and 2019 Graduate of Strawberry Crest I.B. High School Dies Suddenly

Robert “Rob” Haywood’s life was a testament to the power of determination, kindness, and the pursuit of excellence. Born in 2000 in Bethesda, Maryland, Rob’s journey took him from the quiet suburbs of Northern Virginia to the bustling streets of San Francisco, touching many lives along the way.

His sudden passing on August 25, 2024, has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy of love, achievement, and resilience will continue to inspire. Rob’s early years were marked by a spirit of adventure and adaptability. When his family moved to Germany during his childhood, Rob embraced the new culture and experiences with open arms.

In 2003, the Haywood family settled in Brandon, Florida, where Rob would spend most of his formative years. Even as a young boy, Rob showed signs of the exceptional individual he would become—curious, driven, and always ready to lend a helping hand.

A bright student with a love for learning, Rob excelled academically from an early age. He attended Strawberry Crest I.B. High School, where he quickly distinguished himself as one of the top students in his class. Rob’s academic achievements were numerous: he was a National Merit Scholar, a straight-A student, and a proud Eagle Scout.

His commitment to excellence extended beyond the classroom, as he was also a nationally ranked swimmer and a four-year letterman in the sport. In 2019, he achieved a remarkable sixth-place finish in the breaststroke at the Florida High School State Championships, a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Rob’s talents were not confined to academics and athletics. He had a deep passion for music, which he pursued with the same vigor that defined all his endeavors. At Duke University, where Rob graduated in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, a minor in Music, and a certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, he continued to develop his musical talents.

He taught himself to play the piano, adding yet another skill to his already impressive repertoire. Rob was not only a student at one of the nation’s top universities but also an active participant in campus life. He played a wide range of intramural sports, and his outgoing personality made him a beloved member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships.

In late 2023, Rob moved to San Francisco to co-found a tech startup, a natural step for someone with his drive and ambition. The Bay Area, with its vibrant tech scene, seemed the perfect place for Rob to channel his creativity and passion for innovation. Though his time there was tragically cut short, those who knew him in San Francisco remember Rob as a bright, energetic presence, always ready to take on new challenges and eager to make a difference in the world.