Robert Bryan “Bobby” Hunt was born Feb. 7,1939, in El Campo, Texas, to Raymond V. Hunt and Molly Herring Hunt. He was the fifth and last child born to the family, and the only one of the siblings born in a hospital.

Bobby attended Garwood Schools, playing basketball, and football (which included marching in the band at halftime). He attended Abilene Christian University, graduating in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.

Upon graduation, he returned to the Garwood prairie and began farming with the family. Soon thereafter, his beloved father passed away. Bobby continued farming with his brother and brotherin- law, then began farming independently. His daughters Melissa and Camille were born, and the family moved to Columbus. Bobby spent 20 years serving on the Board of the Garwood Farmers Coop, and the last of almost 20 years as President. He also served on the Board of Directors of American Rice Incorporated and the Garwood Volunteer Fire Department.

Bobby’s family has a remarkable history. They were all experienced pilots. His grandfather and father were both rice farmers, a tradition carried down by Bobby and his siblings, revealing a story of one hundred years of rice farmers. Bobby and his nephew Madison Hunt Smith began farming together in 1989. Bobby’s sister Shirley (Madison’s mother) joined them in 1994 and continued until her death in 2012. In 2015, Bobby‘s health required him to retire as an active farmer. However, the foundation he helped establish holds strong and continues to produce rice to this day, as “52 FARMS.”

Bobby is preceded in death by four siblings and their spouses: Dale V. Hunt (Shirley); Glenna Hunt Langford (Otto); Shirley Hunt Smith (Alton); Janet Hunt Wesson (James). He was also preceded in death by his nephew Clayton Smith; brother-in-law J. Robert Herring and sisterin- law Glenda Whitworth Sawyer.

Bobby is survived by his wife of 34 years, Jean Whitworth Hunt; daughters Camille Dickson (Carl) and Melissa Green (fiancé Andrew Weido); stepchildren Shelley Cordray Penaloza (Daniel A. Penaloza II); Neal Ray Cordray (Melissa); and Chad Herring Cordray. He is survived by eight grandchildren: Anthony and Jordan Penaloza; Colby and Kaylea Cordray; Devyn and Peyton Green; Camryn and Carson Dickson. Other survivors are sisters-in-law Yvonne Whitworth Miller (Buddy) and Carolyn Herring as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In 1989 Bobby and Jean Ann married and lived 34 wonderful years together, often spent in travel and vacations. Bobby and Jean were so united, bringing love and fun to all those in their path. At family reunions, El Campo Church of Christ, and Columbus Church of Christ (where he also served as Elder), Bobby was a vigorous song-leader. Bobby’s life reminds us that it is indeed possible for an ordinary person to choose to be extraordinary. As one nephew said, “Uncle Bobby’s lessons will forever stay in our hearts.”

He leaves a legacy for our family here and for generations to come. Our dear Bobby, we will always remember your contagious laughter and your sweet spirit. Until we meet again, may you rest gently in the arms of the Savior. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that you consider donating to the Bering Drive Church of Christ Benevolence Fund or to the Garwood Volunteer Fire Department, “In memory of Robert B. Hunt.” GVFD donations will go toward a new fire station and grass truck. Garwood Volunteer Fire Department PO Box 131, Garwood, Texas, 77442.

Bering Drive Church of Christ 1910 Bering Drive Houston, TX 77057 (713) 783-2340