Robert Lee Sykes

On Monday, September 15, 2025, Robert was called home to be with the Lord. Whether you knew him as Robert, Bobby, Ned, Mice, Uncle Robert, or Pops, you knew him to be firm, hardworking, kind, stubborn, and determined.

Robert was loving, caring, and completely committed to his family. A wonderful husband and father, with warmth, Robert could be relied on to always come through for anyone in need. Regardless of what was happening, he was a source of support and strength. Robert's kind and caring nature touched not just our family but all who knew him.

Robert deeply valued family - when he relocated from Mississippi to Indianapolis, IN, with Auntie Ora, he made it a priority to move his entire family North. As he established employment at Allison/Rolls-Royce, he made sure other family members were able to gain employment there as well. He taught the importance of hard work and dedication as he led by example but never failed to put family first and would go to any length for their happiness.

Robert’s heart was just as big as his hustle. As a father, he filled his children’s and grandchildren’s lives with laughter, joy, and guidance. As they began to navigate the world, he offered wisdom and lessons shaped by his own upbringing. His home was always open, and he welcomed Reggie and Tracy’s friends as though they were his own. In the neighborhood, he was affectionately known as “Pops” and provided a lifetime of memories. As the boss he was, he ordered the ice cream truck driver to stay out of their neighborhood, frustrated by the way its ringing bell enticed children into chasing after it.

Family gatherings brought him the greatest joy, and he made sure everyone felt welcome at reunions - even if they were unable to contribute. Robert’s joy and fortune were never just his own but shared widely. If he came into a bit of good luck, he found ways for others to enjoy it too. Robert’s generous way of thinking was, when he won, everybody won.

Robert’s playful spirit was unforgettable. With his humorous and affectionate sayings like “What’s up, Al Capone?” and “I’ll bust your head to the white meat.” His words often carried a mixture of humor and love that made people feel at ease in his presence. For years, he affectionately referred to his eldest niece, Jeannie Dwain, as JoAnn. No one really corrected him — it just became one of those “Robert things.” He had a gift for turning ordinary moments into cherished memories.

In his final months, in spite of Robert’s declining health, he would often inquire about the wellbeing of his eldest daughter, Aundrea, who lives out of state—a tender reminder that love and memories can endure even through illness. Robert often expressed the deep joy he felt watching family and friends gather for food and fellowship. He would say, “It’s so good to see everyone together, getting along and having a good time… God is good.” These words captured his heart; a man who found happiness in love, laughter, and togetherness.

As he started to decline in health, he never complained… instead, he would thank everyone for helping him. The Saturday before his passing, he enjoyed time with family… asking who is on the grill and when does the card game start? In his final days, family surrounded him to honor his legacy and be with him as he transitioned from this life to his heavenly home.

Robert was born June 15, 1940, to Robert L. and Mary Lena Sykes. He accepted Christ and was a long-time member of Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ernest “Sonny” Sykes.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 60 years, Mary L. Sykes; three children, Aundrea McGill, Reggie Sykes (Christa & Jeremiah), and Tracy Sykes; three beloved grandchildren Christopher Sykes, Brandi Buckner, Robert Sykes; five brothers, Oscar J. Hopkins (Gloria), Tommie Sykes (Faye), Lee Sykes (Arnita), Ray Sykes (Benita), and Johnny Sykes; eight sisters, Catherine Brooks, Betty Sykes, Geraldine Sykes, Rosie Tolbert, Annie Ruth Joyner (Eddie), Akron (Sally) Harris, Louise Sykes, and Mary Louise Martin (Larry); and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Robert’s life was one of love, strength, and selflessness. His lessons, his laughter, and his unwavering devotion to family will live on in all who knew him.

A visitation for Robert will be held Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Greater Morning Star Baptist Church, 519 E 23rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46205, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 PM.