Shelby Lawrence Robert

Shelby Lawrence Robert passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025 surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on September 28, 1934 in Burnside, LA and was proceeded in death by his parents – Ethel and Remy Robert, his brother Cecil Paul Robert and wife Betty, two sisters – Joyce Ann Robert and Lois Robert Simoneaux and husband Kelly, sisters in law Lena Mistretta Robert, Betty Stewart Robert and Carolyn White Cicero.

Shelby was the gentlest of men and the epitome of a Southern gentleman. His captivating smile and kind words drew you in from your first interaction with him. Shelby’s gentle manner and uplifting personality made him well known throughout Ascension Parish. With a razor-sharp memory, he could recall everyone’s name and recite long, beautiful poems which he took great joy in memorizing.

Shelby is survived by his loving wife of 65 years – Betty Cicero Robert, and their four children – Shelly Robert McElwee (Nate), Todd Justin Robert, Barry Steele Robert, Boyd Houston Robert and grandchildren: Mary Adelaide “Addie” McElwee, Nathan O’Berry McElwee III (Carly), John Brigham “Briggs” McElwee, Todd Justin Robert II, Caroline Joan Robert, Dr. Victoria Hayes Robert Aguilar (John), Hayden Patrick Steele Robert, Remy Paul Robert II, Brooks Martin Robert, Major Jaques Robert, Elizabeth Louise “LuLu” Robert, John Houston Robert, Hayden Rivers Robert and great grandchildren – Enzo and Lochlan Aguilar.

He is also survived by his brother- in- law Samuel R. “Bob” Cicero and his two older brothers with whom he spoke to and visited frequently- Hulin Joseph Robert and Glenn Jacques Robert. His many nieces and nephews loved listening to his stories of bygone days and attending Sunday gatherings at the Robert home. Although some stories and jokes were repeated over and over, none ever tired of his tales, which have become a part of the family lore.

Shelby was a board member and an active participant in many organizations over the years including the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation where he served as Secretary Treasurer for 25 years, Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Company, Bank of Gonzales Board of Directors, Ascension Parish School Board, Ascension Catholic School Board, LSU Intercollegiate Livestock Judging Team, Supervisor New River Soil and Water Conservation District, President of the Greater Baton Rouge Port Commission and early in his career he received the Outstanding Young Farmer Award from the Baton Rouge Junior Chamber of Commerce for Exceptional Progress in Agriculture and Contributions to the Community.

Shelby attended Ascension Catholic High School in Donaldsonville and graduated from LSU with a degree in Agriculture. He was a Veteran of the United States Army and even served with Elvis at Bootcamp in Arkansas. He farmed for many years in Burnside, LA where his crops included Soybeans, Sugarcane, Wheat and Corn.

An avid lover of the outdoors, Shelby spent most of his career in some aspect of farming and agriculture. His true love was raising cattle and horses, and he continued to work as a Cattle Broker until his death, representing The Big Blue Sale Barn out of Fremont, Nebraska. He loved this work almost as much as dining on a big steak at his favorite restaurant – Ruth’s Chris, accompanied by a glass of red wine – which he declared was good for the heart!

Shelby jokingly referred to Betty as the love of his life, right after his horse, King, and his English Shepard, Clyde, named after his childhood friend, Clyde Schexnaydre. Betty was his partner in many great adventures and travels to Europe, Asia, Canada and South America. Shelby’s family meant everything to him. Every birthday, anniversary or special event was celebrated. His home was an open door not only for his family, but also his friends, even inviting those who needed a place to stay. He loved cooking and making a big pot of Gumbo – always making sure his roux was just the right dark brown color!

Shelby had a wonderful outlook on life and growing older. He used to say, “I’m catching old age.” He enjoyed a beautiful party celebrating his 90th birthday last September surrounded by 207 friends and family members from near and far. If he were still here – he would probably tell everyone “Don’t be sad because I’m gone. I had a wonderful life. I was raised by a family who loved me and was loved by the family I raised. Until we meet again – give thanks to God for all of life’s blessings.” His were plentiful and appreciated every day.

In lieu of flowers please consider making donations to Metanoia, Inc. a home for minor female victims of human trafficking (founded by Father M. Jeffrey Bayhi) P.O. Box 178, Zachary, LA 70791, or to St. Theresa Middle School Capital Campaign, 212 E. New River Street, Gonzales, LA 70737.

A visitation for Shelby will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Theresa Of Avila Catholic Church, 1022 N Burnside Ave, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737, followed by a funeral mass at 12:00 PM. A reception will follow immediately after service at St. John activity center, located directly behind the church.