Robert Collins (“Bob”) Easter, Sr. passed from this realm on August 11, 2023 while surrounded by his family. They know that he is now free of all pain and worry as he has been welcomed into Heaven as a good and faithful servant. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and intentional action that will continue to inspire all who loved him.
Bob was born November 18, 1941 in Waco, Texas and was the youngest of eight children born to his parents Christopher Columbus Easter and Essie Marie (Smith) Easter. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Carolyn (Castille) Easter, with whom he proudly shared a blended family. Surviving children are: son Robert C. Easter, Jr. and wife Lea (Anthony) Easter; son Christopher Easter and wife Lori (Elam) Easter; son Patrick Easter and wife Jennifer (Fowler) Easter; daughter Catherine (Bowyer) Dant; son John Bowyer and wife Irene Bowyer.
The grandchildren and great grandchildren brought him so much joy! All will remember their BeBe with love: Jordan (Easter) Taylor and husband Steele along with their children Samuel and Margaret; Will Easter and wife Ann Banks (Blackwell) Easter; Alden (Easter) Lopez and husband Max; Chloe Easter; Rylee Elam; Christopher Easter; David Easter; Amanda Easter; Madison Dant and fiance Kabryn Hodgson; William Dant and fiance Paige Bartok along with their infant son Alexander; and Christopherous Bowyer.
Bob worked continuously on genealogical research and he learned his family’s American story began with indentured servitude in 1664 in Virginia. Members of the family have served in every aspect of military and farming life since the beginning of our country, which Bob recognized as honorable work to form and support a great nation. He had high hopes for the United States to continue growth with integrity. The call of his ancestors led to amazing work restoring a family cemetery in Alabama and he has collaborated in publishing the stories as well. “May your thirst and understanding of this history fill your soul with a renewed hope for the future” was his inscription. The numerous family members whom he has connected over the years were all very special to him.
Work ethic was strong with Bob, and it is a value which he encouraged in his children. He worked from very early in his youth (picking cotton, delivering newspapers on a bicycle, helping on the family farm) and learned valuable lessons from each experience. His career in the newspaper business included his position as Director of Circulation at the Austin American-Statesman. He went on to the real estate business, where he owned and operated Easter and Easter, Realtors for many years and became known as “Mr. Sold Mine” during the 1980’s. He was always a consumer advocate and sought out creative ways to improve the industry.
With all of his professional accolades and accomplishments, he would most like to be remembered for his family and for his gardening. A proud certified Texas Organic Gardener, he was at his happiest when digging in the dirt. And what perfect dirt it is! (Texas A&M said so; yes his soil was tested.) His tomatoes and leafy greens are legendary, and he was proud to grow nutritious and heirloom food year-round for his family and for the local food pantries. While he thought no one was listening, those around him have absorbed countless insights into what makes a garden grow, what plants are best companions, and what foods our ancestors ate for best health. Friends and family will always remember him when using seaweed or planting garlic in their own gardens. Bob recently reminded us that the garden was the first gift from God to Man and Woman. He found spiritual connection in the garden and especially among his friends at Sunshine Community Gardens and the Grow Together Community Garden at Gateway. Bob also donated food to and lived the mission of the Micah 6 organization, which is based on Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you? To do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Bob Easter was most definitely a humble man, and he constantly gave thanks to God and to all the people whom he encountered. No matter how he met each person, he was truly interested in their stories and he fostered connection at every opportunity. Hopefully his example can help others spread a bit more kindness throughout the world. With gratitude, the family would like to thank all those who have blessed his life with friendship and support.
In lieu of flowers, kindly contribute to Sunshine Community Gardens or Gateway Church in memory of Bob Easter.