Robert D. Southerland

Robert was preceded in death by his father who died in his prime in the famous Texas City Explosion of 1947, his mother who was responsible for raising a boy into a strong and successful man, and his wife of 19 years, Linda Ann.

Robert graduated from Texas Tech University. He rose from humble beginnings working for finance companies until he found his life long profession in the banking industry. He graduated from the South Western Graduate School of Banking at SMU. He rose through the ranks to ultimately become bank president of four banks in Midland over a period of thirty-six years. He was well respected by his employers and customers. He was especially admired by the board of directors of Community National Bank.

His accomplishments for the community of Midland are enviable. He served on the boards of almost every major organization in Midland which included United Way, Midland Chamber, Salvation Army, Midland Jaycees, Casa de Amigos, Midland Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., Midland Economic Development, Petroleum Museum, Young Life, Lee High School Band Boosters, March of Dimes, Texas Tech University Foundation, and Manor Park. In the banking industry he served in several capacities on the American Institute of Bankers, Texas Bankers Association and Independent Bankers of Texas.

He was active in the Presbyterian Church as a deacon and elder. He was also chairman of the Board of Presbyterian Pan American School and a trustee of the Texas Presbyterian Foundation. He later became a member of First Baptist Church in Midland.

He is survived by his daughters, Sharla Southerland Hamil and her husband Daniel of Little Elm Texas, and Pam Southerland Lookabaugh and her husband Andy of Midland. He has three grandchildren, Dale Lookabaugh and his wife Nicole; Justin Lookabaugh; and Brooke Lookabaugh, all of Midland.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of the Mabee Center at Manor Park for their love and care given to Robert in his last years. Also to the members and staff of First Baptist Church for their time and visits during his illness, especially David Johnson and the John Department. Also thank you to his lifelong friends that were always there for him in his ups and downs, you are all true blessings.

Family will receive friends on Monday, January 28 between the hours of 6pm and 8pm at Ellis Funeral Home. Funeral service has been scheduled for Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at 10am at the First Presbyterian Church with Pastor David Johnson officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the following: First Baptist Church of Midland designated Missions or Building Ministries; Manor Park’s Household Capital Campaign or the General Endowment Fund; or the Salvation Army.