Robert Lee “Paw” Simonton, Sr.
Robert Lee “Paw” Simonton, Sr., 81, of Bridge City, Texas, passed away on September 13, 2024, at home surrounded by family.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Keith Royal. Burial will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches. Masonic Rites Are under the Auspices of Bridge City Masonic Lodge 1345 AF & AM.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Bridge City.
Born in Port Arthur, Texas, on January 18, 1943, he was the son of Captain Paul Simonton and Marian (Gillespie) Simonton. Robert had a career in Instrumentation, retiring from Total in 2003. His dedication extended beyond his primary profession as he worked as a Tax Preparer for 40 years. Robert was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Bridge City, where he was steadfast in his faith, serving as Deacon and Treasurer. His commitment to service was reflected in his role as Past Master of the Masonic Lodge #1345, where he was honored with the Golden Trowel Award. Robert played an instrumental role in building the current Bridge City Little League Park, leaving a lasting impact on his community. He also took great pride in coaching his daughter and granddaughter in softball. Robert cherished his time spent piddling in his workshop, mowing the grass, and enjoying the company of his beloved dog, Diva. But above all else, he truly valued the time he spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Robert’s spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Captain Paul and Marian Simonton; brothers, Paul Simonton III and Stephen Simonton; and father and mother-in-law, Robert "Hoss" B. and Louise Cates.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Ouida Simonton, son; Robert Simonton, Jr., and daughter, Kristin Bertles and husband Stuart; grandchildren, Micheal Simonton, Hayley Bailey and her husband, Brian, Brett Bertles and his wife, Taylor, Christian Simonton and his wife, Jessica, Brooke Garrett and her husband, Blake, and Adley Simonton; great-grandchildren, Mackenzie Cook, Harper Bailey, Rhett Garrett, Sage Simonton, Porter Simonton, and Briar Simonton; sisters, Stacey Simonton and Deborah Walker and husband Gaden; and many other loving family and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Stuart Bertles, Micheal Simonton, Brett Bertles, Christian Simonton, Blake Garrett, and Brian Bailey. Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of First Baptist Church of Bridge City.