Robert Torrence Jr., Concord Jaycees Leader, Dies at 81
Robert Quentin “Sonny” Torrence Jr., a lifelong resident of Concord, North Carolina, and a dedicated community volunteer, passed away on April 28, 2026, at the age of 81. He was known for his extensive involvement with the Concord Jaycees and New Hope Worship Center.
Early Life and Community Involvement
Born in Concord, Sonny Torrence Jr. Was a devoted member of New Hope Worship Center for his entire life, serving on the church’s Counsel for many years. His commitment to service extended to the Concord Jaycees, where he actively participated in various community initiatives.
Concord Jaycees and Charitable Work
The Concord Jaycees, a leadership and service organization for young adults aged 18 to 40, were a significant part of Torrence’s life. From 1978 to 1985, the Concord Jaycees were known for their fundraising efforts, particularly through a popular annual haunted house. These activities supported numerous charitable projects throughout Cabarrus County.
A major focus of the Jaycees’ fundraising was the North Carolina Burn Center at Chapel Hill. Members engaged in various sales initiatives, including jam and jelly sales, to raise funds for the center. According to recollections from those involved, the Jaycees employed creative sales tactics, such as door-to-door sales and setting up booths at shopping centers, to maximize their contributions.
The Concord Jaycees similarly ran a “speak up” program, dedicated to teaching public speaking skills to its members.
Past Jaycee Leadership and Legal Issues
In 1981, several former leaders of the North Carolina Jaycees faced legal challenges related to the handling of funds raised through the sale of Jaycee jelly, intended for the North Carolina Burn Center. J. Harold Herring, a former state Jaycee president, pleaded no contest to charges of misapplication and conspiracy to misapply funds.
Herring was indicted alongside Robert A. Rushton, John L. Fletcher, and Thomas A. Alsop and Maurice Wilson. The charges involved the alleged misuse of as much as $239,000. Wilson pleaded guilty to 13 charges and agreed to testify for the prosecution.
The allegations included using funds for operating expenses and creating fictitious Jaycee chapters to improve the North Carolina Jaycees’ national recruiting rankings. Rushton was also accused of using $22,500 in charitable funds to send Jaycee members on a trip to Las Vegas.
Personal Life and Legacy
Beyond his community work, Sonny Torrence Jr. Enjoyed spending time with family and friends, visiting his vacation home at the beach, watching sports, and boating on Lake Norman. He is remembered as a dedicated volunteer and a pillar of the Concord community.
His memorial can be found on Locate a Grave.