Mr. Robert Donell McLean affectionally known throughout the years as, Big Rob, Truck, Cutman, Willy Wonka, and the Undertaker was born in Hoke County on December 18, 1958, to the late John Henry McLean and the late Elizabeth McLean. Surrounded by loved ones, Robert passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and countless acts of kindness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elizabeth McLean, brothers, Sterlyn, Henry, Archie, a sister, Irene McLean, nephews, Kendrick McLean and Anthony Baldwin, a special cousin, James Lester McLean, a brother-in-law, Donald Ray Pittman, his uncle Zebede Graham.

Robert is survived and missed by his loving wife of 41 years: Ruth, his son: Marcus (Farren), two daughters: Dakota (Merrick), and Makiera. Robert will forever be cherished by his six grandchildren: Seryniti, Corneilus, Jasmine, MaShya, Makai, Noah, he's also remembered by his sisters: Annie Bethune, Betty Allen (Douglas), Angie (Steve), one aunt: Lula Jane Barney, mother-in-law: Betty Ruth Wheeler, a brother-in-law: Jimmy (Blondie), a special niece: Oneisha, special friends of the family: The Brown family, Sandra Johnson (Bill), Joyce Moore, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Robert attended school in Hoke County, and he was raised in the church. He was taught the Word. He knew the word and accepted Christ at a young age. Throughout his life Robert worked as a bus driver for Hoke County Schools, in the agriculture fields, manufacturing and mortuary services. 

Robert was a strong, independent, and devoted man. He loved everyone and would give his last. He loved God and took care of his family. To know Robert was to love him. Robert loved to joke and laugh. He was an all-around man. Some of his favorite sayings were "A mind is a terrible thing to waste", "10-4", "Sho ya right", "it's showtime", "talking to the man on the moon", "Shiiinee" and "case closed". Robert will be remembered for the lives he impacted and changed. His legacy will live on.