Robert Lee Hart was born on Nov. 27, 1938, in Mountain Grove, Missouri, to Wilson and Opal (Kelley) Hart. He passed away peacefully at his home with his loved ones in Licking, Missouri, on April 9, 2025, at the age of 86.
Robert was raised in the Bendavis and Mountain Grove area and graduated from Mountain Grove High School in 1956. He began his career at Brown Shoe Company, where he worked faithfully for 35 years. In 1970, he was promoted to cutting room foreman and transferred to the Houston location.
After leaving the factory, Robert began a new chapter working in the Houston School District as a custodian. His kind spirit and strong work ethic made him a beloved and respected member of the school community until his retirement in 2021. In 2005, he and his wife, Shirley, made their home in Licking.
Robert had a deep love for the simple joys in life and found great happiness in sharing them with his family. He and Shirley treasured their summers camping and traveling together. He also enjoyed hunting, bowling, skiing, gardening and making homemade ice cream for his loved ones. In his later years, Robert could often be found relaxing in his recliner with a John Wayne movie on the screen and the family dog nestled in his lap. More than anything, Robert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Opal Hart; father- and mother-in-law, Ed and Nola Pendergrass; his sister-in-law, Betty Hart; five brothers-in-law; and three sisters-in-law.
On June 1, 1959, Robert married Shirley Pendergrass of Trail, Missouri. They would have celebrated 66 years of marriage this June.
Robert is survived by his wife, Shirley; son, Tim; daughter, Dianna; one grandson, Dalton; two granddaughters, Bridgette and Tiffany (Trey) Smith; two great-grandchildren, Thorin and Arwen Smith; one brother, Hubert Hart of Isabella, Missouri; one sister, Roberta Hodges of Springfield, Missouri; two sisters-in-law, Doroline Barnes and Ann Newton; two brothers-in-law, Dale Pendergrass and Larry (Sandy) Pendergrass; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family.
Robert was a long-standing member of the Licking Church of Christ, where he found joy and purpose in fellowship, worship and service. He was known among the congregation for his quiet devotion, generous heart and dependable nature.
In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated. A graveside service will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Mountain Grove.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sonshine & Rainbow Day school in Robert’s honor. Donations can be mailed to Sonshine & Rainbow Day School, P.O. Box 446, Licking, Missouri 65542. Online condolences may be left at www.foxfh.net. Arrangements are entrusted to Fox Funeral Home.