Poyner Spruill mourns the loss of two former attorneys, Craig Gates Dalton, Jr. and Robert Phillips Gruber, whose distinguished legal careers and dedication to their communities left a lasting impact on North Carolina and those who knew them.
A longtime trusts and estates attorney, Craig Gates Dalton, Jr. built a career helping families and closely held businesses navigate succession planning, charitable giving strategies, and estate administration. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for his undergraduate, M.B.A., and law degrees, and later received an LL.M. in Taxation from Emory University. Craig worked in Poyner Spruill’s Raleigh office for more than 20 years.
Craig was a recognized leader within the legal profession. He served as Chair of the Estate Planning and Fiduciary Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association and was active in numerous professional organizations, including the Wake County Estate Planning Council and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Craig’s commitment to service extended beyond his practice. He received the Chief Justice Award for Excellence in Pro Bono Service for his work on reparations for victims of North Carolina’s eugenics program. He was also a founding member of the Carolina Ballet and Artsplosure.
Craig passed away at 76 years old in July 2026. We will remember Craig for his warm personality and his passion for art and history.
Robert Phillips Gruber was an accomplished attorney, whose career reflected a deep commitment to public service and advocacy on behalf of North Carolina consumers. After earning both his undergraduate degree and law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Robert became one of the state’s most respected public utility advocates. He served as Executive Director of the North Carolina Public Staff of the Utilities Commission, a position to which he was appointed by Governor Jim Hunt and subsequently reappointed by governors from both political parties over a span of more than three decades. Known to friends as “Grube,” Robert had strong relationships with many at Poyner Spruill and served in an Of Counsel position with the firm from 2014 to 2017.
Widely respected for his practical and solutions-oriented approach, Robert played a significant role in numerous utility matters affecting North Carolinians. Even after retirement, he was called upon to assist with Duke Energy’s acquisition of Progress Energy. In recognition of his service to the state, he was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2013.
Beyond his professional achievements, Robert devoted substantial time to community service. He served as Board Chair of the Wake County SPCA, volunteered with Guardian ad Litem, and supported hospice and transitions programs. His passion for golf and Carolina basketball remained central throughout his life. Robert passed away in August 2026 at 83 years old. He will be remembered for his kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those around him.
We are honored to have known and learned from Craig and Robert.
