Robbie Youngblood

Robbie grew up with small-town neighborly values and cherished them all her life. She graduated from Texas Wesleyan College. She married her beloved husband, R. Lamar Youngblood, in 1944, a union of heart and soul that continued even after Lamar's death in 2007.

After working a number of years as a teacher, Robbie became a full-time wife and mother and active participant in church and community activities. She found her true calling as Director of Senior Adult Ministries at First United Methodist Church of Austin, which she and Lamar had joined in 1952. She not only developed a full slate of opportunities for older adult fellowship and service, but also gained the love and respect of young and old in the congregation.

Robbie's life was characterized by her faith in God, her love for family and friends, and her recognition of all people as children of God and friends whom she had not yet met. Her Wal-Mart walks for exercise became a ministry of love and care for employees. She met every challenge with courage and faith, never succumbing to self-pity or bitterness. Her authenticity and sense of humor never failed.

Robbie is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lori Sue and the Reverend David King of Palacios, son Loren Robert Youngblood of Austin, grandchildren Ruth and Simon King, “Sister”/niece Susan Ray of Grandview, and a host of loving friends, including the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Austin.

A celebration of Robbie's life will be held on Saturday, February 10, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 1201 Lavaca. Memorial gifts may be made to the Mobile Loaves and Fishes ministry at FUMC.