Obituary: Robert Bob Elliott, Community Leader and State Representative

Robert “Bob” Elliott, a Boston University School of Theology alumnus whose life spanned sixteen years as a State Representative and decades of devotion to his family and community, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026. He was 94 years old.

Elliott lived in Boiling Springs, South Carolina, after spending many years in Salem, New Hampshire, according to an obituary published by Douglas & Johnson Funeral Homes through Legacy.com. Growing up in Rhode Island as the son of the late Margaret and William Elliott, he attended Boston University to earn a degree in Liberal Arts before completing his studies at the Boston University School of Theology, graduating with the Class of 1958.

Public service defined much of his adult life. Elliott served his community on the Salem Budget Committee and represented his community as a State Representative for sixteen years. He also dedicated his time to the Salem Lions Club as a longtime member and past president, working to support local civic initiatives.

Robert Elliott Funeral

Faith remained central to his routine. He was an active and devoted member of Triumphant Cross Lutheran Church in Salem, finding fellowship and purpose within the congregation.

Outside of his public duties, Elliott enjoyed golfing and boating. Above all, he shared a remarkable bond with his wife of almost 50 years, Barbara Elliott. The couple worked as a close team through life’s joys and challenges, rarely apart.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; his children Debra Elliott of Canada, Stephen Elliott and partner Claudia of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Donna English of New York, Roy Gaw and wife Crystal of Gaffney, South Carolina, James Gaw and wife Kelli of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Elizabeth Gaw and partner Karen of Salem, New Hampshire, and Robert Gaw and wife Galena of Inman, South Carolina; and his sister, Mary McShane of Rhode Island.

He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sons, Mark and Kevin Elliott; his brother, William Elliott; and his grandson, Chris.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, November 9, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home at 214 Main St. in Salem, New Hampshire. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, November 10, at 10:30 AM at Triumphant Cross Lutheran Church at 171 Zion Hill Rd. in Salem, with attendees asked to arrive by 10:15 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Triumphant Cross Lutheran Church.