With abiding faith and the comfort of God’s grace, the family of James Robert “Bob” Clopton, 87, announces his passing after an extended illness on March 20, 2026. Though he will be deeply missed, there is no doubt Bob is in the presence of our Lord and resting in eternal peace, made whole and renewed.
Bob Clopton was born on August 20, 1938, to Rickie and Julia Clopton. He was the youngest of four children. He graduated from Palmetto High School in Palmetto, Louisiana. Bob earned his bachelor’s degree from Howard Payne University and his master’s degree from East Texas State University, both in the field of education. Bob served as a teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and mentor throughout multiple Texas communities, dedicating his life to shaping both the minds and character of future generations. He was known for his ability to cultivate lasting relationships and for the genuine care he showed to every student, colleague, and family he encountered. Following retirement from education, Bob served on the People’s Telephone Cooperative and Yantis Federal Credit Union Boards of Directors. Grounded in unwavering faith, Bob led with integrity, humility, and purpose, leaving a legacy of service and love.
Bob married Pansy Ruth Gilbreath on November 23, 1968. Their marriage was blessed with two sons, Kevin and Kell. The couple committed themselves to their family, traveling near and far to support their boys in every season of life. The couple resided in numerous small towns in Texas throughout their marriage, but ultimately retired in Yantis, Texas. They were faithful members of First Baptist Church of Yantis, where Bob served many years as a worship leader and in the youth ministry.
Affectionately referred to as “Bop” by his grandchildren and great-grandchild, they were, without question, his greatest joy. Bop cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild – loving them deeply, celebrating their accomplishments, and speaking of them with immense pride. He was often seen proudly wearing the colors and logos of his grandchildren’s teams – a visible testament to his steadfast support and the delight he found in their journeys and achievements.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Rickie and Julia Clopton, his older brothers, Young and Dave Clopton, and his beloved son, Kell Clopton. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Pansy Clopton and their devoted son and daughters-in-law, Kevin and Leigh Clopton of Gunter, Texas, and Faith Clopton of Kaufman, Texas, along with their adored grandchildren, Bryce Clopton (wife, Abby, and daughter, Presley) of Van Alstyne, Texas, Braiden Clopton of Fort Worth, Texas and Addison, Averie and Andi Clopton of Kaufman, Texas. Bob is also survived by his sister, Lorena Clopton Stockman of Houston, Texas, and in-laws, Keith and Sharon Gilbreath of Yantis, Texas, and Tony and Kathy Gilbreath of Quitman, Texas. Additionally, Bob was cherished by many nieces and nephews, former colleagues and students, friends, and church members who were like family, all of whom will miss him dearly.