Robert Broughton Gatewood

Robert Gatewood, age 78, of Palestine Texas, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2024.

Robert was born in Lubbock, Texas on January 7, 1946, to the late Morris Shepherd (Jack) Gatewood and Leona (Tiny) Gatewood. He proudly served his country in the Merchant Marines for 7 years during the Vietnam War. After his years in the Merchant Marines, Robert worked as a supervisor in the field of Construction Engineering Technology until retirement. Robert served many roles in his lifetime including devoted husband, father, grandfather, cowboy, pilot, and true friend.

 Robert was a past Master of Neches Masonic Lodge 535, past Worshipful Master of Dixie Lodge 272 Troup, and a member of the Waco Scottish Rites. He was a Mason for 46 years and a Shriner for 30 years. He enjoyed horseback riding, piloting planes, woodworking, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.

Robert is survived by his wife, Sherry Gatewood; daughter, Melynda Grimes; granddaughters, Candyce Gilliland and Jaylen Grimes; great grandson Ryland Gilliland; brother, Morris Gatewood and sister-in-law Pat Gatewood; cousins, Toni Warren, Renee Whitley, Dale and Royce Watson; stepdaughter, Michele  Smith, step grandchildren, Ashton and Palmer Smith; cherished friends, Mike and Kimberly Owens, Robert and Audrey Adams, Bobby and Shirley Able, Jake and Laverne Wise, Joe and Deanna Casey, Tim and Patty Keating, Tom Neely, all the members of the local flying club and too many other friends and neighbors to name including all the “Roberts” on his road.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cottle Funeral Home. An honorary Masonic funeral service will be held at the Dixie Masonic Lodge 272 AF&AM on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 10:00 am.

Robert’s requested final flight over his beloved Neches River will be piloted by Joe Casey and Jake Wise.

To honor Robert, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriner Children’s Texas.

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