In memoriam: Robert Albee Jr
by Heather Guidone
Robert B Albee Jr, MD, FACOG, ACGE, died on 21 March 2025. He was a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the endometriosis community, and an award-winning surgeon with a lifetime of expertise in endometriosis and advanced minimally invasive gynaecologic surgery.
Dr Robert (Bob) Albee Jr
We honour the co-founder of the Center for Endometriosis Care (formerly known as the Endometriosis Care Center) affectionately known as “Dr Bob”. The CEC was created in 1991 to execute his vision of providing dedicated treatment to those affected by endometriosis.
Dr Bob was internationally recognised and respected by both peers and patients alike for his contributions as a pioneer in advancing endometriosis advocacy and compassionate care. His work contributed to the state of specialty endometriosis care today, and he helped thousands upon thousands of patients from around the world. He was known for offering not just medical expertise but kindness, hope, and understanding.
Dr Bob received his undergraduate degree from Hampden-Sydney College and earned his medical degree from the University of Virginia. Later, he served his internship at Roanoke Memorial Hospital and his residency in obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Virginia Hospital. Among the early leaders in advanced gynaecologic surgery and use of the laser for excision of endometriosis and treatment of pelvic pain gynaepathologies, both on this continent and abroad, Dr Bob taught his techniques to countless physicians and surgeons in every corner of the globe.
A man of faith, brilliant physician, tireless advocate, and extraordinary mentor, he not only provided compassionate, life-changing care but shaped the future of surgery through the others he trained. His mentorship, skill and unwavering commitment to excellence set a standard that continues to influence the field today. One of the first 100 surgeons to receive the honour of being awarded Certification in Advanced Operative Laparoscopy by the Accreditation Council for Gynecologic Endoscopy, Dr Bob shared his expertise with various endometriosis organisations and remained active throughout his lifetime career in many medical societies, including the Medical Association of Georgia, ACOG, the GYN Laser Society, the AAGL and others.
A dedicated Humanitarian, he also made multiple trips to provide medical assistance to the Penan tribes in the Baram River area of Sarawak in East Malaysia. For many of the people he treated there, he was the only physician they saw all year. Dr Bob received countless awards throughout his career for his humble, compassionate work, including as a “Top 10 Doctor” and “Best of…” He was also included in Who’s Who for his accomplishments and contributions to medicine.
Dr Albee performing minimally invasive surgery
With satisfied patients from every corner of the globe from Singapore to Kenya, Hong Kong to Israel, Venezuela to Italy and everywhere in between, Dr Albee was truly an internationally acclaimed surgeon, respected by both the worldwide endometriosis and women’s health communities and much beloved by the thousands of patients he cared for over his lifetime career.
For those of us navigating complex health challenges, Dr Bob was a rare and invaluable advocate – someone who fought for better care, sought answers where others saw none, and treated each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis.
His legacy endures in every life he touched, every surgeon he trained, and every patient who found comfort in his care.
Predeceased by his lifelong love Luc (Lucille) Glisson Albee, Dr Albee is survived by his beautiful children, Todd (Kristine) Albee and Ryan (Edward) King, beloved grandchildren, and many extended family members. His spirit remains in the work we continue, in the lives he changed, and in the gratitude we hold for having known him.
