Robert Frank Higginbotham

Robert Frank Higginbotham, lovingly known as Bob, was called to heaven on January 4, 2025. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bob will be deeply missed. Born in Kempner, TX, on June 10, 1933, to John B. Higginbotham and Myrtice Ann Higginbotham, Bob was the second of five children. His family relocated to the Shoalwood neighborhood in Austin during his childhood. In those days, Austin was a smaller town, and Bob often reminisced about riding his horse “Nelly” through the neighborhood and fishing and swimming along Shoal Creek. A hard worker from an early age, Bob always stood out for his industrious nature. He threw a newspaper route every day, and tended livestock. His hard work paid off when he saved enough to buy a 1940s convertible, which helped him catch the eye of his future wife, Doris, while attending Austin High School. Bob often shared fond memories of slinging gravel with his shiny ride past Doris’ house on Taylor Street, near what is now IH-35, before it was paved. Their love grew, and they shared 71 wonderful years of marriage together. Bob and Doris married in 1953. Bob was soon drafted into the United States Army where he served in the Korean War. Upon returning home stateside, he was introduced to his first son, Bo, who was eight months old at the time. As Bob sought work opportunities, the couple lived in many places, including Harlingen, TX, Billings, MT and Cheyenne, WY. It was during this time that Bob entered the roofing and sheet metal trade.

After settling back home in Austin permanently, the couple welcomed their second son, Joe, into the world, in the fall of 1958. Their third child, a daughter, Belinn was born in the spring of 1964. Bob had a lifelong love of animals and the great outdoors. An avid bass fisherman, he competed in tournaments with the Austin Bass Club, winning and placing in tournaments across Texas. In 1986, Bob purchased a ranch near Bertram, TX, where he devoted his weekends and holidays to building ponds, raising cattle, and improving wildlife habitats. His efforts earned him recognition as an “Outstanding Conservation Rancher” by the Hill Country Soil and Water Conservation District in both 1991 and 1992. Called “Papa Higley” by his grandchildren and loved ones, Bob cherished sharing his ranch with friends and family. He taught them how to fish, swim, and enjoy the outdoors, just as he had on the ranch he had so beautifully built.

A businessman at heart, Bob founded Capitol Roofing Company in 1960 and built a business in North Austin where it continues to operate today. Bob’s passion for his work was unparalleled. He never retired, and even at 91 years old, he still came to the office every day — working alongside employees he considered family. Many of them worked with him for decades, and several more than 40 years. Bob was known as a role model, and a true inspiration to his family, friends and employees. His company’s legacy is evident throughout Austin and Central Texas, with contributions to thousands of commercial, government, and residential structures.

Bob’s extraordinary sense of humor, family devotion, and relentless work ethic will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and countless cherished memories.

A service to honor Bob’s life will be held on Friday, January 17, at 11:00 a.m. at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 North Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78752.