He was a true example of compassion, generosity, kindness and loving people well. His strength and tenacity were inspirational to all who met him. He had an amazing gift for making people laugh and feel comfortable.
Robert was born to the late Claude Segrest and Lois Rivers Segrest in Waco, Texas. He graduated from University High School in Waco in 1957. He graduated from Baylor University with a BA in 1962 and later earned his Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Doctor of Ministry from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Born with a calling to serve both his country and his faith, Dr. Segrest began his journey as a Marine Corps officer, where he trained as a helicopter pilot and served with distinction. His military career took him to Vietnam, where he bravely fulfilled his duties before returning home to pursue his passion for ministry.
While in flight school in Pensacola, Florida, Robert met Barbara Moseley. They fell in love and married on November 30, 1963. Soon after, she pinned his Naval aviator wings, and the two were off to Southern California where he was stationed as a Marine helicopter pilot. For four years, Bob flew, Barbara taught, and they were active in their church.
Following his military service, Dr. Segrest attended seminary and embarked on a lifelong mission of pastoral leadership. He ministered in churches across Texas, Tennessee, and Florida, touching countless lives with his wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith. His tenure as pastor at Concord Baptist Church spanned over a decade, during which he and his wife, Barbara, worked tirelessly to support their congregation and community.
Dr. Segrest and Barbara shared a deep commitment to serving others. After retiring from pastoral ministry, they moved back to Chattanooga, where Dr. Segrest became the Eastern Regional Vice President of the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Homes. Together, they dedicated their lives to helping abused and abandoned children, embodying the values of love and service.
Dr. Segrest also served and was very involved in the East Brainerd Kiwanis club serving in various roles.
In 2007, both Dr. Segrest and Barbara were diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Despite the challenges, they remained steadfast in their faith and devotion to one another. Barbara passed away in 2020, with Dr. Segrest holding her hand in her final moments.
Dr. Segrest was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his older brother, Harvey Segrest.
Dr. Segrest is survived by his loving family, including his children, Ward Segrest and Melanie (Mark) Robinson, and his grandchildren, Wesley, Tanner, Colby, and Jackson.
He is also survived by his four brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Rebecca, Philip and Gayle, John and Dawn, Charles and Liz, and their families; his sister-in-law, Betty Clyde and brother-in-law, Roy Lee.
His legacy of faith, service, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held at Ridgedale Baptist Church, 1831 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421 on May 30, 2025 at 12:30 PM, followed by interment at Chattanooga National Cemetery. Dr. Bill Owens will officiate.
The family will receive friends starting at 11:30am, Friday, May 30, 2025 at Ridgedale Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home, in memory of Robert Segrest, 6623 Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 E Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.
