Robert "Bob" Thomas Mashburn

Robert “Bob” Thomas Mashburn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully in his home in Pineview, Georgia on October 12, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Bob was born on August 31, 1935, in the small farming town of Hawkinsville, Georgia, where he grew up in a family of 10 children with a deep sense of family, patriotism and a strong work ethic, which would shape his life in significant ways. Upon graduating from Pineview Highschool, his calling was to serve his country, and he proudly joined the Air Force. He served for over 20 years with unwavering dedication and courage, was a true patriot, embodying the values of duty, honor, and sacrifice. During his time in the military, he married his first wife, the late Etsuko Koike Rogers, Robbie’s mother. After retiring from his military career, Bob, and his late wife, Linda Lee, and their daughter, Michelle, settled in Lafayette, Louisiana, near his late brother, Don Mashburn and his wife, Bonnie, where together they opened the first Asian restaurant in Lafayette, the Golden China Restaurant, in 1977. It was a family affair which spanned with over 21 years of dedicated service in a community he loved with friends, loyal customers, staff and employees who became family. In addition, during these years, Bob also served as a proud member of the Cajundome Commission. Later in life, Bob reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Pixie Cranford. They were married, and together shared 22 years of life full of love, laughter, adventures, and cherished moments. He was an exceptional father to his children, Robbie and Michelle, and stepchildren, Jack, Janet and Jeff, providing them with guidance, love, sense of humor, and a strong foundation of character to build their own lives upon. A core belief of Bob’s was fellowship, with his brothers, he believed a Shriner finds ways in which to serve his God, his family, his fellow man, and his country. He was raised a Master Mason, joined the Scottish Rite, became a Knight Templar in the York Rite, coronated a 33° Mason, and joined the Shrine and the Royal Order of Jesters, all dedicated to charitable work and community service. Bob had a remarkable zest for life, embracing every aspect with enthusiasm. His boisterous laugh and lighthearted spirit were inviting. His presence brought joy and laughter to those around him. His friendships were a testament to the love he gave and received. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Mashburn and Bennie Jewell McKinney, his late wives, Etsuko Rogers and Linda Lee Mashburn. He is survived by his loving spouse, Pixie Cranford Mashburn, his son, Robert "Robbie" Thomas Mashburn, Jr. and his wife, Annette, his daughter, Michelle Lee Mashburn Arabie and her husband, Allen, his Stepchildren, Jack (Hope) Palmer, Janet (Mike) Mahaffey and Jeff Palmer, Grandson, Robert “Tres” Thomas Mashburn III, Step Grandchildren, John Alleman, Christopher Alleman, Josh (Felicia) Palmer, Bronson Arabie, Ilia Palmer and Lilla Palmer. He is also survived by his many other family members and friends who will forever cherish the memories they created together. A memorial service to honor Robert "Bob" Thomas Mashburn was held in Pineview, Ga on Sunday, October 15, 2023, at Pleasantview Baptist Church. The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the funeral service celebrating his life to follow immediately at 2 p.m. All services will be held at Delhomme Funeral Home, 1011 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA (337) 235-9449 A private entombment will follow, at a later date, at Fountain Memorial Mausoleum. The family suggests sending memorial contributions to Shriners Children’s Hospitals, an organization Bob was deeply passionate about (www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/giving). Our heartfelt and sincerest gratitude to Connie English, John Alleman and Pruitt Healthcare, for their compassionate care and dedication. The memory of Robert “Bob” Thomas Mashburn and the impression he made on the lives of so many will live on forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace. Copyright Delhomme Funeral Homes, Inc. October 2023

Robert "Bob" Thomas Mashburn

August 31, 1935 - October 12, 2023