Bob Bledsoe passed away September 25 in San Augustine, Tx. He died after being evacuated as a result of Hurricane Rita. He had been suffering from Progressive Supernuclear Palsy, a rare form of Parkinson ’s disease.
Bob was born in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, February 20, 1936. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Southern Arkansas University, a master of education from the University of Houston, and had completed all but his dissertation for a doctor of education. He was a certified mid-management administrator.
After graduating college, Bob taught and coached in the Texarkana, Tx area. He then moved to Galveston where he continued his career in education and coaching. He was promoted to athletic director and then left to pursue his doctorates.
In 1976, Bob joined Port Arthur Independent School District as an assistant principal at Stephen F. Austin Middle/High School and later at Woodrow Wilson Middle School. In 1988 he became assistant principal at Lincoln High School and later became Principal of Thomas Jefferson High School until his retirement.
Bob was a member of many educational organizations, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, and the Port Arthur Founders Lion Club.
Survivors include his wife, Brooksie, of 40 yrs. A daughter, Carrie Ann Bonham and her husband, Aarron. Son, Rob and his wife, Tara, two granddaughters, Austin and Kenzie Bonham and new grandson, Becks Bledsoe. A sister, Barbara Gartner, and brother, Ted.
A memorial service will be held, Saturday, November 12, 2005 at 2:00 pm at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 2425 Nall St, Port Neches with Reverend Cliff Rucker officiating. A gathering of family and friends will be in the parish hall following the service. Local arrangements are with Broussard’s Mortuary in Nederland.
Friends wishing may send memorials contributions to the following. Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, 710 west 168th St, New York, N.Y., 10032; National Parkinson Foundation, Bob Hope Road, Miami, Florida, 33136-1494; Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
