John Robert Standridge, aged 93, passed away on May 1, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. He was born on November 9, 1927 in Beaumont, Texas to Dudley and Lou Standridge. Mr. Standridge, also known as Bobbie, Bob, or Stan, was preceded in death by his loving wife Doris Sue Standridge.
The start of their relationship began in 1950 when he saw her for the first time and proudly proclaimed to his friend, “She’s a little champ, I’m latching on to her!” And that he did. They were married on April 14, 1951. For 70 years, his life was marked by duty and devotion in absolute to her and their family. Their home was full of love and laughter, and their relationship a testament of true love to all that knew them.
Bob loved music, playing his harmonica, and dancing with Doris in the dance halls of the 50’s to dancing through life at weddings, celebrations, anniversaries, and parties. He had an incredible memory and could remember and sing any song he ever heard from the age of four on. Two of his favorite songs were “Just Look at Us” by Vince Gill, most appreciated when dancing with Doris, and “Orange Blossom Special.” Their wedding rings had orange blossoms engraved on the wedding bands.
Bob was a beloved friend, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Whether it was tossing a baseball, doing a dance, lighting a fire baton, or entertaining his crowd with jokes, he was always ready to participate, often enthusiastically. He was the center of any room, a great story teller, full of life and laughter, whilst making each person around him feel valued and important. He was gifted at developing relationships, sometimes in surprising locations and circumstances because of how kindhearted and genuine he was. Never becoming a “grumpy old man,” Bob loved learning new things, including new words in different languages from the people he would meet and daily jokes to pass on to those around him.
Bob was a lifelong resident of San Antonio, who attended Brackenridge High School. He was a dedicated U.S. Army Veteran and U.S. Merchant Marine Veteran. He retired as a driver from Rath Packing Company after 36 years of service and continued driving for the City of San Antonio until his retirement.
He was preceded in death by his daughter in law of 44 years Lynette Standridge, great grandson Austin Standridge, and six siblings.
Mr.Standridge is survived by his son Johnny Standridge, daughters Sue Cole and Sherry Burkett; Grandchildren Josh Standridge and wife April, Valerie Balbaugh and husband Robby, Brandy Thomas and husband Gregory, Brandon Cole and wife Heather, Chelsea McKeathen and husband Ben, and Laurel Burkett; Great Grandchildren Breanne Thomas, Aiden Standridge, Bentley Thomas, Zoe Balbaugh, Alyssa Standridge, Grace Balbaugh, Blaise Thomas, James Cole, Justin Cole, Jack McKeathen, and Jason Cole. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
Visitation will be in the Sunset Funeral Home on Austin Hwy. in San Antonio at 9:00-10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 1. The ceremony will follow at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetary in shelter no. 1 at 11:00 a.m.
