Robert L. Fouts, 95, of Franklin, passed away on Saturday, March 26, 2011.

Born in Macon County, he was the son of the late Hamilton Fouts and Rosa Downs Fouts. He was predeceased by six brothers, Lofton, Cyrus, Buford, Vance, Blanton, Roy and two sisters, Revena Smith and Lura Mae Dietz, as well as his wife of 41 years Margaret Fisk Fouts, his first wife of 25 years, Mildred, and daughter Jaynet Fouts Workman.

He is survived by his daughter Virginia Smith and husband Robert of Highlands, granddaughter Anna Smith Vickers (Jon) Knoxville, TN, and grandson Mark Smith, Tulsa, OK, 8 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends and special friend, Walt Coddall.

Robert was a member of Iotla Baptist Church, a former Panther Football player and life long Panther fan. Square dancing, organizing and encouraging Fouts Family Reunions, and caring for the Fouts Cemetery in Iotla were highlights of his retirement after working in Michigan for many years. His most notable job during WW II was the Manhatten Project in Detroit, building part of the atomic bomb.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 1 at Macon Funeral Home.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 2 at 11:00 a.m. at Macon Funeral Home. The Rev. Stacy Woods and Rev. Steve Reeves will officiate. Burial will be in the Fouts Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fouts Cemetery C/O Nancy Krag, 3339 Burningtown Rd, Franklin, NC 28734 or Iotla Baptist Church, 1537 Iotla Church Rd., Franklin, NC 28734.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.