Robert James Barton

Robert James (Bob) Barton passed away April 23, 2023 in his room at Windcrest Health & Rehabilitation Center, where he had resided for the past five years. He was surrounded by his “adoptive” family, at the time of his passing. Bob was born on May 2, 1951 to Lindsay and Carmen Barton in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He moved to Abilene, TX around 1970 to attend Abilene Christian College. Upon graduation, he began his career as the Technical & Artistic Director at Abilene Community Theatre, where he did the set design and directed hundreds of productions, and touched the lives of countless individuals in the community. Bob created a family atmosphere within the walls of the theatre, which became well-known as a safe space with open doors for people to come as they were, without judgment or pretense. Bob retired in 2011, due to a health decline in the wake of a stroke, and the community gathered to honor him during a celebration ceremony at that time. Bob was an avid reader and a member of Mensa. He will be remembered as an endearingly grumpy, brilliant, tender-hearted, and welcoming soul, and as “Uncle Bob” to many. He was preceded in death by both of his parents and by his beloved dog, Jake. He is survived by his Abilene family, Gary & Jeanie Bone, Gary & Mary Bone, Jr., and Hannah and Jeremy Holmes, amongst others whose lives he impacted, through his time at Abilene Community Theatre. The family would like to thank Bob’s caretakers from Windcrest, along with Hendrick Hospice. At Bob’s request, there will be no formal memorial service, but we ask that you consider honoring his life through a donation to Abilene Community Theatre or a charity of your choice.