R. B. Choate

Robert Blake “R.B.” Choate, 91, died peacefully on December 7, 2023 surrounded by family and loved ones in Abilene, TX. He was born February 24, 1932 to Emelia Margaret (Krienke) and Raymond Earl Choate in Abilene, where he lived his entire life.

On September 28, 1973, R.B. married his beloved wife, Wanda “Joyce” McCaffety, and together they owned and operated Choate Plumbing Company. They enjoyed square dancing, traveling, and creating a warm welcoming gathering place for family and friends.

R.B. was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Joyce (2009), his brother Tommie Choate, and two sisters Nellie Wills and Frances Bolen.

R.B. is survived by his brother Rufus Choate (Arlington, TX), daughter Sandra Fowler and husband Cliff (Abilene, TX), son Gary Choate and wife Karen (Jacksboro, TX), son Bob Choate and wife Nori Yonack (Albuquerque, NM), daughter Donna Andress and husband Jim (Abilene, TX), son Garry Smith and wife Betty (Tuscola, TX), son Tony Smith and wife Lynn (Tuscola, TX), granddaughters Kara (Choate) Crombie, Dawn (Choate) Sakes, Lindsey (Fowler) Harkness, Britany Smith, Cassie (Smith) Crowe, and Hailey (Smith) Hocke, four great-grandchildren, and many great-granddogs.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at Elmwood Memorial Park (5750 US-277, Abilene, TX 79606). Ret. Rev. David Cason will officiate. A “Life Celebration” reception will immediately follow the service at the Choate residence.  Arrangements are with The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd.

R.B. Choate will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and trusted friend. He leaves behind a profound legacy of love and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hendrick Hospice Care through the website www.hendrickhospice.org.