Obituary: Robert William Duce

Robert William Duce, 74, died at his home in  Lutz, FL on December 29, 2023.  

Bob was born on March 28, 1949, in Newport, RI.  His early life was spent in Middletown where he was a graduate of Middletown High School, Class of 1967.  Growing up on Aquidneck Island, Bob, became part of the beach scene: surfing, sailing, cruising on his motorcycle and enjoying the local hangouts with friends.  He was known for his vibrant personality and unique approach to life.

Bob was the son of the late Alice H. Duce and Herbert W. Duce of Middletown, the owners of Blaine Jewelers, Newport and Middletown, RI.  Bob earned a degree at the Gemological Institute of America, and was the owner and manager of Blaine-Duce Jewelers in Middletown, RI from 1978 until the business closed in 1995 when he lost the lease.

He moved to Florida in 1995 to start a new life where he could enjoy the benefits of not being encumbered with work or clothes.  Always marching to his own drummer, Bob embraced the naturist lifestyle from a young age.  He relocated to a clothing-optional community in Lutz, FL, where he went by “RI Bob.”  There, he was the life of many a party and often clowned it up.  He had a great sense of humor and always had a joke ready for the occasion.  Bob loved his motorcycle, his costumes, his ladies and his beer. 

In his later years, Bob faced many medical challenges, including heart disease and diabetes that hampered and shortened his life.  He is survived by his sister, Sandra Duce Saunders, and his niece, Jennifer Lynn Saunders, both of RI.