Robert Lee Ralls III, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Vietnam veteran, and man of unshakable faith, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, in Dallas, Texas. Born on September 14, 1947, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Robert spent his final days surrounded by his children, who shared their love, held his hands, and played his favorite hymns. He left this world peacefully in the early morning hours.

Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bette Annette Ralls, in February 2023. Their nearly five decades together were a testament to enduring love, faith, and resilience. Married in 1975 after just three weeks of courtship, their union was filled with joy, challenges, and a shared commitment to their family and faith. While life was not without its struggles, they faced them with strength and an unshakable belief in God’s plan.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Robert served during the Vietnam War with distinction. Enlisting on November 24, 1965, he served two years of active duty as an infantryman, earning an Honorable Discharge in 1967. His commendations include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Sharpshooter (Rifle), and two Overseas Bars. After active duty, Robert continued his military service as a drill sergeant until the early 2000s, mentoring countless young soldiers.

Following his military career, Robert pursued cosmetology, working as a hairdresser and barber for over three decades. He also attended Criswell College to study seminary, answering a divine calling to ministry. His faith journey began after a transformative conversation with Bette led to his salvation, a turning point he shared often in his testimony.

In 1998, Robert found his church home at Lakeside Baptist Church, where he remained a dedicated member until his passing. Through the years, he formed countless lasting friendships that enriched his life and deepened his faith.

Robert and Bette raised a large, blended family and were parents to nine children: David Ralls, Cassandra Ralls, Kelly Turner, Kimberly Carson, Kara Broyles, Brook Ralls, Kendra Falldine, Taylor Broyles-Ralls, and Katelynn Ralls. Robert was a proud father, stepfather, and adoptive father, finding his greatest pride in the lives his children built. While family life was sometimes chaotic and far from picture-perfect, his love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was boundless and unwavering.

Faith was the cornerstone of Robert’s life. Whether guest-pastoring at local churches, offering hope to inmates as the resident minister at the county jail, or sharing his testimony with anyone willing to listen, Robert lived his faith openly and wholeheartedly. He had an unparalleled compassion for individuals with troubled pasts, always seeking to uplift and guide them toward a better path.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee Ralls Jr. and Anna Bell Marie Ralls; his wife, Bette Annette Ralls; his step-daughter, Kara Broyles; and his cousin, Lucy Ralls. He is survived by his children and their families; his brother, Richard David Ralls; and countless friends and loved ones.

Robert’s life was far from ordinary. It was marked by faith, service, and an enduring love for those around him, but also by hardships and struggles that he never shied away from acknowledging. He often spoke openly about falling short and relied on God’s grace to carry him through. In his humility and perseverance, he became a source of hope and inspiration to many. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, faith, and redemption lives on in the lives of those he touched.

Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on January 18th, 2025 at Lakeside Baptist Church. 

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