Robert Harvey Campbell

Robert Harvey Campbell, age 88, passed away August 25, 2024 in McLean, Virginia. He had a distinguished career as an officer of the Central Intelligence Agency’s Directorate of Operations. Bob joined the CIA shortly after graduating from the University of Chicago, where he studied Asian culture and religions on a Ford Foundation Fellowship. CIA Director William J. Casey awarded Bob the Career Intelligence Medal for exceptional achievement in 1986. His accomplishments in the CIA were of immense value to our national security.

Born in Jackson, Michigan in 1936, Bob possessed a rare combination of intellect, humor, warmth and a broad understanding of the world. He was urbane and gifted with the ability to converse fluently on a wide range of topics. A devoted family man, he combined domestic life with his work. He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Koopman Campbell, in 1957. They and their two daughters lived in various countries abroad. He retired from the CIA in 1986 but remained active in retirement.

His interests were far-reaching, from the workings of the brain’s limbic system to the flourishing of Buddhism in the West to the arcane details of intelligence theory. He authored many articles and in-depth studies on the intelligence profession and national security issues, including the book “Modern Swahili Usage” in 1965. Known and respected for his expertise, he contributed to national publications, including The New Yorker.

Friends and family knew Bob as witty and perceptive, a voracious reader able to analyze and discuss economics, literature, international relations, or opera and classical music with ease.

In retirement, he and Mary bought and restored a 1936 wooden sailboat named Seabird II and taught themselves sailing in Maine. Bob was an avid jogger and enjoyed athletic pursuits. He competed in Senior Olympics in the decathlon and race-walking events.

He is survived by Mary Campbell, the love of his life for sixty-seven years, and his daughters, Marsha and Pamela, and son-in-law Eric. A memorial service will be held at the Money & King funeral home, 171 West Maple Ave., Vienna, on Friday, September 20th at 11:30 AM. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Jackson, Michigan at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to his favorite charity, the Ironwood Pig Sanctuary, P.O. box 35490, Tucson, AZ 85740. Donations can sent by emailing the charity at ironwoodpigs@yahoo.com (yep, that’s Bob!).