Robert Harkles Ambush

Reverend Robert “Bobby” Harkles Ambush, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, pastor, and friend - was born on September 7, 1934, to Columbus and Margie Ambush. He transitioned to heaven on June 27, 2024.  

He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and joined the St. Paul AME Church in Dickerson, Maryland. After graduation from Lincoln High School, he joined the U.S. Air Force. After his first day in mechanic’s school - having learned everything about engines at the feet of his father - Robert was put in charge of the class by the instructor and earned his first promotion. He served as a valued member of the U.S. Strategic Air Command and was honorably discharged.  

Shortly after returning home, he met the love of his life, Doris Bowie Ambush, who he married on May 29, 1959. Their joy was multiplied with the birth of their son, Robert “Bush” Harkles Ambush, Jr. One of Robert’s greatest joys was accepting his calling to the ministry in 1984. He was ordained a Local Deacon in 1988 and ordained a Local Elder in 1992. He did all he could do to further the Kingdom of God, to assist his fellow man, and to maintain the physical structure of the church. Reverend Ambush was devoted to St. Paul and was a valuable asset to its membership. He served as Superintendent of Sunday School, as a Sunday School teacher, and as a member of the Steward Board, Finance Committee, and Men’s Ministry.  

Through hard work, intelligence, determination, and dedication, Robert rose through the ranks of the Maryland State Highway Administration and retired in 1995, having last served as the Resident Engineer over Frederick County. He was active in his community. He served as the Past Master of James E. Stewart Lodge, Grand Inspectors General of Western Maryland Consistory #270 and Past Grand Prior of Samuel T. Daniels Council of Deliberation for the Orient of Maryland. Robert was a member of several community organizations. He also served as a youth baseball coach. 

Reverend Ambush was preceded in death by his wife and his parents. He leaves to mourn his son, Robert H. Ambush, Jr., (Rozana) and his daughter, Reverend Delonia A. Watson; his grandson, Zachary Osbourne (Geraldine); his sister, Margaret Jackson; his brother, Louis R. Ambush (Charlotte); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

The family will receive friends form 10-11 AM on Friday, July 5, at Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick where services will begin at 11:00 AM. Entombment, Mt. Olivet Cemetery.