Roberto J. Huie

Roberto Jose Huie, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, great-grandfather, honorable Vietnam Veteran and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on May 2, 1940, in Panama, Central America, Roberto was the son of Ruperto and Linda Huie and the brother of Tony, Isabel, Andres, and Maria (Ines). In 1956, his family immigrated to the United States and settled in Brooklyn, New York, where they began a new chapter of life.

Roberto joined the United States Army and soon thereafter became a U.S. Citizen. Not long after, he returned to Panama and swept Gilma (as he always claimed)—his future wife—off her feet. The two began a lifelong journey of love and devotion that would span 65 years of marriage. Their partnership was built on faith and mutual respect, and were a beautiful example to all who knew them.

Roberto went on to serve with distinction in the U.S. Army rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 in the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). His career was marked by a deep sense of integrity and justice. He earned numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal and the Legion of Merit. To those who served alongside him, he was a man whose judgment could be trusted and whose ethics never wavered.

At the center of Roberto’s life was his unwavering faith. Roberto’s journey as a devout Catholic began while he was stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland. It was there that he and Gilma got involved with the Catholic Charismatic Renewal movement, marking the start of a profound and transformative spiritual walk. This deeper connection with their faith not only strengthened Roberto’s relationship with God but also enriched his role as a husband and father. Their shared devotion brought them closer to each other, to their community, and to the Holy Spirit. Wherever life took them, Roberto and Gilma sought out charismatic communities, carrying with them a desire to grow in faith and to share that joy with others.

When they eventually settled in Tampa, they continued to live out this mission—spreading the spiritual vitality that had so deeply impacted their lives. Their commitment to this path made them more loving partners and more devoted parents. He lived each day in service to God and his community, evident from his participation in numerous ministries, including Ministros de Eucaristía, Cursillo de Cristiandad, Ministro de la Renovación Carismática, Fiat de Manto de María and El Grupo de Oración Amór de Jesús. Beyond his visible roles, he also served quietly behind the scenes, offering leadership and support to those in need, never seeking recognition.

He was also a man who knew the power of joy. His laughter was infectious. Known for his quick wit and legendary sense of humor (some say he was one of the founding fathers of dad jokes), Roberto brought smiles to generations. But sometimes, as his beloved Gilma often jokes, some of his quips were so mischievous they just might have earned him a trip to confession.

Roberto’s faith was compassionate and deeply personal. He prayed often, gave generously, and carried his faith into every space. “Bobby” was a guiding light to his family, a role model to countless others, and a man whose life embodied honor, humor, and heart. Throughout his life, Roberto led quietly but powerfully—with integrity and with courage and was a steadfast believer in doing what was right. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.

Roberto is survived by his devoted wife, Gilma; his children Linda, Isabel, and Roberto Jr.; his grandchildren Alexander, Mary, Jaedon, Lucas, and the late Sarah (†2023); and his great-grandchildren Conan, Athena, and Ender. He is also survived by his siblings Tony, Isabel, and Maria (Ines).

Forever in Our Hearts

Your love, your laughter, and your guiding faith will remain with us always.

A visitation for Roberto will be held Monday, May 26, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Gonzalez Funeral Home, 7209 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33614 with a rosary service beginning at 7:00PM. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM at St Paul Catholic Church, 12708 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 with the burial following immediately at Garden of Memories Cemetery, E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610.