Robert Neal Rives

Robert Rives met Jesus face to face on February 3, 2024. 

He was born in Merkel, Texas in 1951. After graduating from Permian High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served for 6 years. After being Honorably discharged, he moved back to his West Texas roots where he worked in the oil fields until he went to trade school and became a welder. 

Robert had a quiet and introverted soul, but his life was full of many adventures. From hitchhiking with 3 of his best friends from Texas to California in the early 70’s to deep sea diving in the Caribbean seas off the shores of Costa Rica. When he was younger, he loved riding motorcycles, camping and fishing. In his older days, you could find him and his little Dog, Sugar watching golf or the Dallas Cowboys, eating Taco’s and brisket. 

His favorite saying was “right on brotha!” He also loved music and could play many instruments. Never having one music lesson, he taught himself how to play by listening to the music tones. 

He is survived by his oldest Daughter Robbin (husband Todd) and his youngest daughter Monica. He has 5 grandsons, Travis, Tate, Chase, Chance and Justin and 2 great-grandkids, Alizay and Alic.

He is preceded in death by his dad RJ, his mom Margaret and his brother Jimmy.

The family of Robert would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the Doctors and nurses who cared for him and to Vitas Hospice Doctors, nurses and staff who cared for him and ensured his comfort in his final days. 

We would also like to thank Sunset Memorial for all their help and guidance in planning his final resting place. 

A visitation will be held February 12, 2024, at Sunset Memorial in Odessa, Texas from 5-7PM. 

Graveside services will be held at Sunset Memorial in Odessa, Texas, February 13, 2024, at 1:00 PM.