The regional literary community was saddened by the news last month of the passing of Robert Milby (1970- 2024), a cornerstone of the Hudson Valley arts and cultural scene and a passionate advocate for poetry. A poet, performer, teacher, and mentor, Robert’s words resonated far beyond the page, inspiring countless writers and audiences throughout his career.
A Life in Poetry
Born and raised in Florida, New York, Robert began sharing his poetry publicly in March 1995. Over nearly three decades, he performed at more than 1,500 readings, captivating audiences across the Hudson Valley, New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New England.
Robert’s poetry appeared in respected publications such as Chronogram and Home Planet News, as well as in anthologies like Will Work for Peace and Calling All Poets: CAPs Voices. His collections, including Ophelia’s Offspring and Victorian House: Ghosts and Gothic Poems, reveal his mastery of language and his deep connection to the spiritual and the gothic.
In May 2017, Robert was appointed Poet Laureate of Orange County, New York, a role in which he championed poetry’s power to connect communities. His chapbook Gothic, Orange reflected his appreciation for the region’s unique character.
“Poetry lovers in the Sussex County, NJ, area, will be sad to know that Robert Milby has lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. Robert brought poetry lovers together by hosting readings in various venues all over Orange County, NY. He was one of those gentle souls who is an unstoppable force. His contributions to the local poetry community were recognized when he was made poet laureate of Orange County. We will miss his monthly email list of upcoming readings, and we will certainly miss him.” – Jean LeBlanc, The Writers’ Roundtable of Sussex County, NJ
A Teacher and Mentor
Robert’s passion for poetry extended into education. He conducted workshops and readings in schools and cultural centers, nurturing emerging poets and celebrating established voices. His commitment to fostering a love for the written word was evident in his work with the Northeast Poetry Center’s College of Poetry, where he taught creative writing and hosted events.
“I have an affinity to people who are kind. Robert Milby was one of the kindest people I knew. He listened to people. He deeply cared about poetry and literally did all he physically could to promote poetry in the Hudson Valley. He encouraged three generations of poets in my family. He came to my classroom and lit little fires. He had his struggles but kept them to himself so people could focus on the importance of poetry. His death is a great loss to the Hudson Valley and beyond.” – Marianna Boncek
A Performer Like No Other
Robert’s performances were unforgettable, often blending poetry with music. His collaborations with Carl Welden in “Theremin Ghosts!” brought poetry to life in a haunting and innovative way. This unique duo became a seasonal favorite during October, adding to the mystique of Robert’s gothic-themed work.
By his own reckoning, Robert Milby was a featured reader over 450 times in his 30 year career as the “Hudson Valley’s hardest working poet.” He hosted over 30 poetry open mic series in that time.
A Lasting Legacy
Robert Milby’s legacy will continue to inspire poets and writers throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond. He leaves behind a body of work that speaks to the human experience with grace, passion, and honesty.
There will be a memorial celebration and open mic at Elting Memorial Library, 93 Main Street, New Paltz NY, on January 19, 2025, from 1 to 5:00 pm. Bring five minutes of material to perform, either one of Robert’s own poems, a poem of your own written in his honor, or a poem by one of his favorite poets.
The Hudson Valley Writers Guild extends our deepest condolences to Robert’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work.
If you’d like to share your memories of Robert or how his poetry impacted you, please leave a comment below. Let’s celebrate the life of a true literary icon and carry forward his love for poetry and community.
