Robert Eli Upright, 95, of Kannapolis, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at his home.

Robert was born January 31, 1931, in Rowan County, North Carolina to the late Charles Crawford Upright and the late Fannie Mae Overcash Upright.

He was also preceded in death by wife and mother of his children; Myrtle Morgan Upright and siblings, Georgia Upright Seaford, Elsie Upright Whitman, Margie Upright Plyler Church, Charles Crawford Upright, Jr., Connie Virginia Burris, and Rosa Lee Upright.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Whitley's Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Whitley's Funeral Home in Kannapolis officiated by Pastor Carl Fosdick. Burial will immediately follow at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 1350 S. Main St, China Grove.

Survivors include children; Michael Upright, Barbara Jordan, Carol Proctor (Donnie, deceased), Loretta Galloway (Randy); grandchildren, Alisha Ryan (Jeremy), Mickey Galloway, Angie Richardson (Darrell), Christie Tilley (Chris), Jeremy Proctor, and Kimberly Sutterlin (Neil); 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Doris Hodge; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert will be remembered as a man who found joy in both the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of good friends. He enjoyed flowers and watching them flourish. An avid sportsman, Robert enjoyed hunting and fishing, always at home in the outdoors. Above all, he cherished the time he spent playing bluegrass music with his friends. He also honorably served two terms as Military Police in the United States Marine Corps.

Robert enjoyed flowers and floral gifts are very much appreciated.

If you wish to make a memorial donation in memory of Robert, these may be made to Bayada Hospice, 466 Jake Alexander Blvd W, Salisbury, NC 28147.