Dr. Robert Robson Buntin

Dr. Robert Robson Buntin was born in Nesbit, Mississippi on December 7, 1935. He attended Vanderbilt University, where he earned his degree in Chemical Engineering and also ran track, winning the 1957 SEC championship in the 880 yard event. Bob met Carolyn Carmichael, the love of his life, at Vanderbilt and they married while Bob was earning his PhD at Purdue University. After college, Bob served as a Captain in the US Army stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground. Bob spent his career at Exxon in Baytown, Texas. There he and Carolyn raised their family of four children and formed many lifelong friendships.

Bob loved to recall his modest background. He grew up on a dairy farm near the small town of Nesbit as the youngest of three boys. He often recounted spending time in his dad’s general store and at the nearby cotton gin. In his high school years, his family moved to Gulfport, Mississippi where he worked at his family ice cream stands. Bob loved to tell colorful stories of his childhood and small town life.

While working at Exxon Chemical for 36 years, Bob researched polymer film technology and authored numerous patents along the way. He and his teammates invented melt blowing polymer processes for making soft fabric-like material used in products like diapers and surgical gowns.

Bob and Carolyn attended St. Mark’s United Methodist Church where they have been faithful members for more than 60 years. The Open Door class became Bob and Carolyn’s extended family with whom they have studied the Bible, raised children, traveled, served others, and experienced the fullness of God’s love together. Bob loved the church, the inspirational music it provides, and the friends that he made there.

Bob loved his family, who affectionately knew him as “Pop.” He presided over countless family gatherings, meals, and celebrations. He loved spending time and playing games with his 11 grandchildren, who all adore him. Pop particularly loved watching their sporting events and activities. For the kids, annual highlights were the family summer vacations - all staying in one big house at Lake LBJ - and Buntin holiday gatherings which provided many happy memories.

Bob stayed busy with many hobbies and interests. He loved to play and watch sports, particularly golf and Astros baseball. Tinkering with and fixing things around the house were some of his specialties. Yard work, working his flower beds, and growing camellias were among his favorite ways to spend time. He loved music, enjoyed puzzles and games, and always wanted to read and learn.

Bob is survived by Carolyn, his cherished wife of 61 years. Their children and spouses are Rob and Stacy Buntin and their children Taylor and wife Shyanne, Lauren, and Owen; Bill and Charlotte Buntin and their children Amy Lou, Will, and Abby; Beth and Gary Woods and their children Ryan and Leah; and David and Cari Buntin and their children Leighton, Olivia, and Carson. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Taylor Davie Buntin and Josephine Shoemaker Buntin and his brothers Taylor Davie Buntin Jr. and William Dean Buntin. He also leaves behind a host of relatives and dear family friends.

A memorial service will be held at St. Mark's United Methodist Church, Baytown, on Sunday, April 3 at 3:00 pm. with Rev. Kenn Munn officiating. The graveside service will be at Sterling-White Cemetery on Saturday, April 2 at 11:00 am. The memorial service will be available online via livestream for those who cannot attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Baytown, Texas.

The family appreciates the special care given to Bob by both Traditions Health Hospice and Visiting Angels staff members.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.navarrefuneralhome.com for the Buntin family.