Obituary of Robert F. Vincent

Robert F. 'Vince' Vincent, 78, of Hixson went to be with Jesus Christ, Tuesday, December 8, 2009, at his residence. Mr. Vincent was a former Police Sergeant with the Miami Beach Florida Police Department. He was a superior motorcyclist with the department's elite motorcycle squad. He also worked for the Marine Lab at the University of Miami with Jacques Cousteau and was captain of the marine research ship 'Gerta.' He worked in the marine lab in many phases. He was a phenomenal sailor and was a member of the Privateer Yacht Club. He loved the ocean and the sky and was involved in many exciting adventures during his many careers. One adventure, featured in National Geographic and Life magazines, told the story of he and a policeman friend who were lost at sea when their boat sank. With his strong willpower, Mr. Vincent survived by swimming for 72 hours. Mr. Vincent also worked in movies with actors Frank Sinatra and Keenan Wynn racing motorcycles and leading parades down Miami Beach. Actor Jackie Gleason was a close friend. His last place of employment was with Card-Monroe Corporation in Hixson. Mr. Vincent was a builder and pilot of many airplanes. He was an experimental aircraft member and flyer. He built over a hundred large RC planes and one experimental plane, and was a member of the Radio Control Club. Mr. Vincent was an active member of South Soddy Baptist Church for 20 years. He lived an adventurous life and will be missed by all who loved him. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Dottie Vincent; daughter, Beverly Averitt Foust (David) and his 'Golden' Lily. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, December 20, 2009 at South Soddy Baptist Church, 11055 Dayton Pike, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379. In lieu of flowers, remember all the unwanted animals in animal shelters. This act of kindness will please him more than anything. Arrangements are by locally owned and operated Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Soddy-Daisy, TN. Share your thoughts and memories at www.legacyfuneralhome.com. 24 hour obituary line 843-5055.