Rev. Robert Bird Sr.

Rev. Robert Bird Sr., 79, of New Britain, husband of Maureen E. Bird, went home to be with his Lord on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at Hartford Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hartford, he was a lifelong New Britain resident and was formerly employed at Sam’s Club, before retiring.  Robert grew up in Bethel Apostolic Church in Middletown, which was under the leadership of his parents, Rev. Marion and Irma Fennell.  He served as the Hartford Police Chaplain for many years and was currently a member of Bethesda Apostolic Church in New Britain.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Maureen E. Bird; his children, Tonya Denise Bird, Robert Bird Jr. and Erik Lee Bird; his daughter-in-law, Monica Bird; his future son-in-law, Richard Green; brothers and sisters, Denise Tartt, Ivan Fennell, Patrice Fennell (Ben), and David West (Nancy); his grandchildren, Katrell Bird (Liz), Jakarri Bird, Aaliyah Bird; special children who called him grandpa, Michael Rodriguez, Vanessa Wolfe, Shelby Wolfe, and Jordan Wolfe; his great-grandchildren, Braylen Bird, Riley Philavong-Bird, and a great-granddaughter to arrive in June, Kiley Bird.  Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Carol Ann Wright; his adopted son, David Medina and adopted daughter, Heidi Jackson; his church family; a host of nieces and nephews including Tim Wright, Kevin Bobb, and Derrick Purefoy; and many friends.  Robert was predeceased by his parents, Rev. Marion and Irma Fennell; his brother, McLeod Fennell; and by two sisters, Dorothy Wright and Tammy Perry.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held on Saturday at 11 AM at Bethesda Apostolic Church.  Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery.  A calling hour is Saturday from 10-11 AM at church.