Robert Joe Friday (62) passed away on April 7, 2021 at his home in McKinney surrounded by his family.
Robert “Bob” was born on May 15, 1958 in Paris, Texas to Joe and Mary Ann Friday. He grew up in Roxton, Texas with his parents, sister, Katherine “Kak”, and many cousins and friends. He made wonderful memories growing up in a small town and built countless lifelong relationships with his beloved friends and family. On January 30, 1982 Bob married the love of his life, Tammy (Coward) Friday. Together they had three children — Colin, Jaclyn, and Leslie.
Bob was a devoted husband, father, friend, teacher, and coach. He was kind, compassionate, steady, and a man of high character and integrity. His lifelong relationships with so many people are a testament to the kind of man he was – loyal and faithful. As one of his dearest friends said so well, “You will always remember how it felt to laugh with Bob and to be loved by him.” His loved ones could not agree more – it truly was a privilege to know him, to love him, and to be loved by him. Bob was also sharp as a whip. Perhaps our favorite quality about him is that he was too humble to say any of the above about himself.
Bob loved sports and was a standout basketball player. He graduated from Paris High School in 1976 and went on to play basketball at Paris Junior College before graduating from UT Arlington. Bob was passionate about his career in teaching and coaching – he cared deeply for his students and players. He began his career in Lago Vista, Texas in 1982 before moving to Longview, Texas in 1983. His coaching and teaching career included Lago Vista, Pine Tree, Trinity School of Texas, Roxton, Pittsburg and Longview High School, where he retired in 2011.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 39 years, Tammy. He is also survived by his children, Colin Friday (and wife Aja), Jaclyn Bunch and Leslie Friday. He leaves behind five grandchildren who were the apple of his eye: Tyler, Grayson and Mack Bunch, and Park and Margot Friday. Bob is also survived by his sister Katherine Peek (and husband David), aunt, Ruth Rutherford, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and great friends – all who loved him and whom he loved dearly.
A graveside service has been set for Saturday, April 10th at 2:00pm at Restland Cemetery in Roxton, Texas with Chaz Holsomback officiating. No formal visitation has been scheduled.
Online condolences may be sent to the Friday family by visiting www.fry-gibbs.com
In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to donate to your local Boys & Girls Club or the Alzheimer’s Association.
