When not traveling to mills or contractors, Bob was often in his flagship Ben Silver retail store in Charleston, where he welcomed conversation with his customers.

Over the years, the store on King Street became an iconic landmark of Bob’s adopted city. Like so many of the artistic endeavors he and I did together, the store became an opportunity to explore comfortable and welcoming design. Unlike most retail stores, it speaks of a club atmosphere—a club that customers feel they belong to and engage with.

Because both the exterior and the unique interior of the Ben Silver store invited the attention of many visitors to Charleston, the setting became a scene for several special events. The store served as the backdrop for a key scene in the TV series “Outer Banks” and resulted in the store becoming part of regular tours of the city.

Bob had a well-deserved reputation for caring for his staff and took pride in creating a family environment in the office. He partnered with me in the business, and our children were important in developing the achievements of the company. He engendered loyalty among his staff. He was respected by his suppliers for his integrity, keen intellect, high standards, and his exceptional taste. He was admired by customers and those who knew him, even briefly, as a kind and gentle person with a sharp sense of humor.

He was a leader in the Charleston community for many years and believed in civic responsibility and global commitment. In 2020 the company donated to World Central Kitchen’s efforts during the pandemic. In 2022, Bob designed a necktie with block stripes in the colors of the Ukrainian flag and used the entire proceeds from selling the tie to donate to the International Rescue Committee.