[3] Despenser held the office of royal steward, or dispenser, under King William II.

He may be the Robert de Abitot referred to in a confirmation charter of King Stephen of England's, but this identification is not certain.

[3] Robert was still alive in 1098, as he restored some estates to Westminster Abbey,[3] but likely died shortly thereafter.

[4] In Normandy, Robert was a benefactor to the Priory of St. Barbe-en-Auge, which had been founded by the Tancarville lords.

[6] Despenser appears to have had no legitimate male children, as his heir was his brother Urse.