January 26, 1952 – August 22, 2026
Robert Nabor Padilla was born in Morenci, Arizona, to Hermina Rojas and Benjamin Padilla, and was one of 15 children.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary; his grandson, David; his parents, Hermina and Benjamin; his brothers Ike, Isidor, Victor, and Ray; his sisters Keta, Susana, Linda, Lilly, and Mary; as well as two angels. He is survived by his brother Manuel; his sisters Jennie and Stella; his children Gina Lujan, Elaine (Matt) Newell, and Robert Padilla Jr. (Mindy); his grandchildren Alexandrea (Joe), Paul (Gabby), Mercedes (Pedro), Hunter, Tigerlilly, Alan, Miranda, and Jonathan; and his great-grandchildren Mariah, Kimberly, Andrew, Analiese, Eliyanna, Jaiden, John, Giselle, Peyton, Joseph Jr., Benjamin, and Mia.
Robert earned his Bachelor's degree at Pima Community College. His very first job was at Pat's Chili, where he fondly remembered chili dogs selling for just 12 cents. In January 1975, he began a long career as a Warehouse Manager at Mountain Bell/USWest/Qwest, retiring in 2008. He worked as an instructional assistant at Rivera Elementary School from January 2009 to March 2010, often coming home with joyful stories of chasing the children around the field. He also worked as a CNA, caring for others.
Robert took great pride in his strong work ethic and was an avid collector of just about everything. Above all, he was a devoted family man who attended countless family gatherings. Whenever he entered a room, his presence was immediately known by the laughter that followed.
His physical presence is gone, but the profound impact he left behind will never be forgotten.
We love you, Dad, and will miss you with our deepest gratitude for the life you gave us.
Visitation will be held at Funeraria del Angel Catalina, 3435 N First Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719, US, on September 19, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, followed by the Rosary at the same location from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, and the Funeral Service from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.
A Graveside Service will take place at South Lawn Cemetery, 5401 S Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706, US, on September 19, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.
