Robert Stuart Shute Jr's Obituary
Robert (Bobby) Stuart Shute, Jr, 71, passed away on March 11, 2024.
Bobby was born on November 6, 1952 in Jacksonville, Florida. He loved the outdoors
and especially being near the water. Throughout his life he enjoyed participating in and
watching any sport you could name. He was an ardent fan of Florida State University,
where he studied.
After graduating with his Master of Social Work degree, Bobby dedicated the first twenty
years of his professional life to counseling in Tallahassee and Jacksonville. After
moving to Memphis, Tennessee he earned his Master of Business Administration
degree and worked in a number of professional endeavors finishing his career as a
partner with Eagle Brothers Construction.
Bobby was a beloved husband to Dawn Shute for nearly 31 years. Together, they shared
a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Bobby had such a gift for
hospitality; he was never happier than when he was cooking a large spread on the grill
for friends and neighbors. Hosting guests from out of town or housing interns through
their church was a special joy to him.
The world held no strangers for him, he could strike up a conversation and develop a
friendship with anyone he met; from an elevator to the pickle ball court. Bobby loved
everyone well and was always curious to learn their stories. Every week, he met with a
dear group of friends at Panera. They shared the joys and challenges of life together for
many years.
Bobby was active in the AMEN bible study at Second Presbyterian Church and served as
a deacon there. He particularly loved serving as a greeter, making new friends and
ensuring newcomers felt welcome. Through Second Presbyterian, Bobby participated in
mission trips to Jordan, Argentina, Cuba and Puerto Rico. Whatever the activity, from
working on a mission trip to planning his home garden, he always approached life with
enthusiasm, a sense of adventure, and incredible consistency. Bobby faced many
challenges but always demonstrated through words and actions his deep faith in God
and hope for the future. He never stopped dreaming.
A loving, compassionate and steadfast father, Bobby leaves behind his son, Daniel
(Mary) (Chicago, IL) and his daughter, Christina (Memphis, TN). He will be deeply
missed by his children, who will forever cherish the memories they shared together.
He is survived by his brother, David Shute (Wytheville, VA), sister, Debbie Jones
(Jacksonville, FL) along with five nieces and nephews: Zell, Abby, Summer, Wesley and
David. He was preceded in death by his parents Evelyn Shute and Robert Shute, Sr.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate Bobby Shute's life will be held at 12:00 PM
on Wednesday, March 20 at Second Presbyterian Church. Friends and family are invited
to attend. Please park in the lot facing Central Avenue by the soccer fields for the
service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to World Missions at Second Presbyterian
Church or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Bobby’s wife and children are especially grateful for the outpouring of love and support
during this very difficult time
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?