Robert Vincent Trinsey Jr.
“Bob” or “Pops”
Robert Vincent Trinsey Jr., affectionately known to most as “Bob” and later as “Pops,” passed away on the morning of July 1, 2025, at Christiana Hospital, after a long and courageous battle with heart disease. He was 65 years old. Bob is predeceased by his parents, Robert Trinsey and Naomi Moore, and his brothers Dan and John. He is survived by his beloved wife Regina; daughter Barbara Fitzgerald (Jacob); sons Michael (Darby) and Joseph (Erin); grandchildren Sadie, Vincent, Maisie, Riley, and Emilia and his half-sister Andrea DeGatano.
Bob was born in Norristown on July 11, 1959, and grew up in Philadelphia, where he met the love of his life, Gina, when they were just 14 years old. The two shared a remarkable bond that lasted five decades. They married in 1979 and celebrated their 46th anniversary on February 24th of this year.
A dedicated provider, Bob left high school early to begin work as a roofer and supported his family through more than 35 years of hard work. In 2002, he earned his high school diploma—the same year as his daughter Barbara.
Bob was the best dad his kids could ever hope for. He coached nearly every sport, but volleyball became his passion in 1996 when he founded Brandywine Volleyball Club with his wife Gina. His “Bobcats” became one of the best teams on the East Coast and were known for their hustle and team spirit. Bob also served as head coach at Wilmington Friends School from 1999 to 2010, guiding the Quakers to numerous conference championships, state tournament appearances, and over 100 wins. More importantly, he taught a generation of players that, “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
In 2016, Bob transitioned to collegiate coaching at Goldey-Beacom College, but after the birth of his grandson Vincent, he returned to high school volleyball—this time as assistant coach to his daughter Barb. From 2019 to 2025, they worked side by side, though he occasionally forgot who was supposed to be the assistant.
Pops loved being a father, but perhaps loved being a grandfather even more. His patented knee bounce could calm any crying baby, and his unique humor made him a favorite among the grandkids.
After retiring from roofing, Bob found joy in poker. “Doctor Poker” loved giving the younger guys at the table some “helpful” coaching after they misplayed a hand. He especially cherished the games at his son Michael’s house.
His family is forever grateful to the heart and surgical teams at Christiana Hospital, whose care gave us the gift of so many extra years with him. A favorite of his nurses, he could turn even a painful procedure into a reason to laugh.
A visitation will be held Monday, July 7 from 5-7 pm at the Claymont Fire Hall, 3223 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont DE where a celebration of Bob’s life will follow at 7 pm. A time of fellowship will follow until 9 pm. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donation be made to Wilmington Friends School https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/52778/donations/new?amt=50.00
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
