Robert Earl Selby

Born March 9, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois to William and Vivian Selby. Bob’s childhood years were spent in Illinois and Indiana, and he graduated from Portage High School in 1953. He married his childhood sweetheart Mary Jackson in 1955, and shortly afterwards moved to Arizona.

Living in Phoenix, and in 1966 permanently settling in Tucson, Bob became a respected influence in commercial tire sales to area mines, as well as managing retail tire stores. His work with the mines and construction companies took him to many parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico, and he was considered to be a tire expert when needed in court cases. He loved his work enough (and his people loved him), that he worked until he was 80 years old.

Bob loved sports, both as a player and a spectator. In his early years he ran track and played basketball, in school as well as in city leagues. He played golf with business associates, friends and family. He was an enthusiastic U of A Wildcats sports fan, and he attended and cheered loudly at as many of his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events as time and distance would allow.

Bob loved his family, and they knew it. He and Mary were married for 65 years, and they served their families, friends and church body. He mentored family and friends through the years including his accountability brothers. Mary was his lifelong sweetheart, his only dance partner, and cruising companion, especially to Hawaii, where they took many trips and made special memories with each other and with dear friends and family. His children and grandchildren were blessed by seeing a man who loved his wife deeply. They saw what hard work and integrity looked like. And they were recipients of his generosity, godly counsel and constant love.

Bob was active in church throughout his life: teaching, serving and leading wherever he was needed. Most importantly, he was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, and is celebrating in His presence now.

Bob is survived by his children: daughter Robyn Gaub and son Bob Selby Jr. (Cindy); grandchildren Adam (Janne) Gaub, Robert (Robbi) Selby III, Caleb (Andrea) Gaub, Rachel (Ethan) Robison, Noah Gaub; great-grandchildren Hannah Gaub, Divya Selby, Easton Gaub, Dorthy Selby, Colby Gaub; sister Vivian Sheriff; many nieces and nephews whom he loved so much, and dear friends that have been as close as family to him. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary Selby, son-in-law Kevin Gaub, parents William and Vivian Selby, brother Bill and sister Grace.

Bob passed away at Peppi's House (TMC)

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 10 at 2:00 p.m. at Tucson Baptist Church, 1525 S. Columbus Blvd. Charitable donations may be sent to Tucson Baptist Church Missions Fund or God’s Vast Resources at godsvastresources.org