Robert S. Hurlbut Jr., an exceptionally devoted and hardworking member of the Cambridge community, died peacefully on Dec. 22, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 88.
In 1994, Hurlbut became the first executive director of the Cambridge Community Foundation. During his 21 years at the Foundation, he expanded its core efforts, forming bonds with nonprofits in the city who in delivered assistance in educational enrichment, food insecurity, tutoring student mentorship, mental wellness, permanent housing and homeless shelters. He created the first Needs Assessment for the Cambridge Community as well as Cambridge Volunteers. Under his leadership, the Foundation’s assets grew from $12 million to $33 million. Afterward, he remained a steadfast supporter directing his energy towards youth philanthropy, and local news. Hurlbut was an early supporter and important donor in establishing the nonprofit Cambridge Day.
Bob, as he was known, was born March 31,1937 and grew up in Cambridge. He graduated from St. Paul’s School in Concord, N.H. and then Harvard College. He began his career as a teacher in the Newton school system, and then became principal of Park School in Brookline. He led the Park School for 24 years, transforming it from a Brookline neighborhood school to a top-notch metropolitan school serving a broad and diverse population of students from Boston and its many suburbs.
Members of his school community recalled that Hurlbut always had a smile on his face and was easy to talk with. He celebrated events joyfully whether dressed in red and green and singing jubilantly for the annual Yule Festival, remembering birthdays, or hosting Christmas parties for faculty at his house.
Predeceased by his wife, Nancy Gannett, Bob leaves three children: Angie in New Haven, Rob in San Francisco and Sam in New York, and six grandchildren. He was a wise and good-humored example to them all. Much respected and admired in our community, Bob’s contributions can be seen and felt throughout Cambridge.
A memorial service is scheduled for Apr. 11, 2026 at 1 p.m. at Harvard Memorial Church.
This story was updated to correct Hurlbut’s birth year and age. Cambridge Day regrets the errors.
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Just a fanatic man. Adored Cambridge with his whole heart. A gem.