Robert Leroy Wilbanks

Robert Leroy Wilbanks, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 23, 2025, at his residence in Bee Cave, Texas. He was 87 years old, born on August 30, 1937, in O’Fallon, Missouri, to the late Kenneth Leroy Wilbanks and Hallie Shepherd Wilbanks. Bob was preceded in death by his brother Kenneth Ray Wilbanks and sisters Betty Wilbanks, Sue Twillman, and Wilma Wilbanks. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; his children, Kenneth Perry Wilbanks and Ann Wilbanks Scardaville; his son-in-law, Edward Scardaville; and his brother, William “Bill” Wilbanks.

Bob’s life was a testament to love, service, and adventure. Growing up on a small farm in rural O’Fallon, Missouri, he honed his skills in hunting, fishing, and repairing motors, tractors, and cars—skills that would define his resourcefulness throughout his life. A 1955 graduate of Francis Howell High School in Weldon Springs, Missouri, Bob went on to serve his country with distinction in the United States Air Force. Commissioned as an officer, he became an Electronic Warfare Officer and Navigator, first flying the B-47 and B-58 bombers as part of the Strategic Air Command and then the iconic F-105 “Wild Weasel” fighter bomber in combat. During the Vietnam War, Bob flew 131 missions, accumulating 301 hours in combat, and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his exceptional bravery and valor along with numerous other awards. He retired with the rank of Major after 22 years of honorable service.

In 1972, Bob earned a degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University. He built a successful career in mortgage banking, eventually purchasing and running a small mortgage company for seven years before selling it in 1997 and retiring.

Bob’s zest for life shone through his many passions. An SSI-certified Dive Master, he explored the depths through scuba diving. He loved boating and developed a passion for sailing in the Gulf of Mexico. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved bird hunting with his beloved Brittany Spaniels, Skipper and Ellie. Bob also had a passion for bird watching and astronomy.

Bob’s love for tinkering led him to restore and trade classic vehicles, including Austin Healeys, Jaguars, MGs, motorcycles, motorboats, sailboats, and even a Winnebago. Known for his ability to fix anything, Bob’s hands were as skilled as his heart was generous. Bob also had a wonderful sense of humor and devised many elaborate practical jokes on friends and coworkers!

Above all, Bob cherished his family. He met Mary Roques Peyrefitte in 1958 in Biloxi, Mississippi, and they married on May 7, 1959, in Gulfport, Mississippi. Their love endured through 66 years, even as Mary recently required nursing home care. Bob visited her faithfully, holding her hand and expressing his unwavering love. He was a devoted father to his children, Ann Wilbanks Scardaville and Kenneth Perry Wilbanks, and his voice lit up with joy whenever Ann called or when he spoke of Ken.

A great patriot, husband, father and friend. Bob’s legacy is one of courage, loyalty, and love. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services will be held Friday, May 16, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Central Texas State Veterans' Cemetery, located at 11463 TX-195, Killeen, Texas. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday May 17, 2025 at 1 pm at the Scardaville residence in Spicewood, TX.