Obituary of Robert Unkefer

Robert W. Unkefer, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and faithful, lifelong servant of the Lord, went to his eternal home with Jesus on January 6, 2016.

Robert was born on May 26, 1926 in Lake Worth, Florida. At an early age his family moved to Deland, Florida, where he attended Elementary, Junior High and High School. After graduation from High School in 1944, he joined the Army, serving in the Philippines and Korea. Following his military service, he attended Georgia Tech University and received his Bachelor's degree in 1951.

Robert met the love of his life, Bobbie, in 1956. They were married on December 27, 1957. Robert and Bobbie served the Lord together in various ministries at First Baptist Church Jacksonville for over 45 years as leaders to High School students, Young Couples, and Young Adults. Robert also worked with the youth choirs.

Robert worked for Heavy Road and Bridges Companies of Jacksonville, retiring in 1998. Since February 2013, he has resided in St. Johns County.

Robert's life revolved around his church and his family. He was the proud father of four sons, spending many hours on the bleachers at ball parks, watching them play. He loved traveling and gardening and anything that took him outdoors. He loved to take long walks and take in the beauty of God's Earth! He was involved in many civic functions.

Robert is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruth Rainey Unkefer (Bobbie) of St. Johns, FL; two brothers, Roy Unkefer of Atlanta, GA and Ralph Unkefer of Orange City, FL; four sons and daughters-in-Love; David and Teresa Unkefer of Kennesaw, GA; Mark and Paige Unkefer of St. Johns; Paul and Robin Unkefer of Maryville, TN; and John and Laurie Unkefer of St. Johns; and eleven grandchildren Haley Eccles (Kris), Lauren Unkefer, Andrew Unkefer (Kelsey), Annie Unkefer, Jessica Unkefer, Sarah Kate Unkefer, Ethan Unkefer, Caleb Unkefer, Isaac Unkefer, Seth Unkefer, and Sam Unkefer.

The funeral service will be 11:00am on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at Fruit Cove Baptist Church, 501 FL-13, St. Johns, FL 32259, led by Pastor Tim Maynard and Pastor Charles Ragland. The family will receive friends from 10am until the time of the service. A reception will follow the service at the church. After the reception, there will be a short interment service at Arlington Park Cemetery, 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211.