Obituary of Robert E. Elberson

Robert E. (Bob) Elberson passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Charlotte, NC, on February 26, 2013. He was born in Winston-Salem, NC, the son of Charles E. and Harriet B. Elberson. Mr. Elberson actively supported personal advancement through higher education by establishing and endowing scholarships at Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC. Mr. Elberson also facilitated innovation and entrepreneurship in the non-profit realm through Reemprise Fund, a foundation he began in 2005. Mr. Elberson is a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration. He also served in the Air Force for two years. His career included: President of Hanes Hosiery, Winston-Salem, NC, 1968, where he launched the successful L'eggs brand; President & Chief Executive Officer Hanes Corporation, 1972; President & Chief Operating Officer Sara Lee Corporation, Chicago, IL, 1983; Vice Chairman Sara Lee Corporation, 1986. Since his retirement in 1989, Mr. Elberson has focused his resources and time on philanthropic work and travel, both his true passions. Mr. Elberson's immediate family includes daughter Ann Lee and her husband, Eric Lee, of Port Orchard, WA, son, Charlie Elberson and his wife, Lou Kinard, of Charlotte, NC, and his grandchildren, Marshall Hatfield, Joe Elberson and Annie Elberson. There will be a private service for the family. Mr. Elberson will be laid to rest in the Salem Moravian Graveyard, Winston-Salem, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to: Reemprise Fund c/o Foundation of the Carolinas; www.fft.org or Salem Academy and College, c/o Vicki Sheppard, VP Institutional Advancement, 601 South Church Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.