Robert Edward Drown's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Robert E. Drown who departed this life on July 28th, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 88.
Often referred to as “Bobby” he was born in Dallas, Texas and grew up in Lakewood. He attended Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, Texas before joining the Marines. Bobby suffered a leg injury after several years of service in Okinawa. In need of surgery, Bobby was discharged honorably.
Civilian life led Robert to meet his beloved wife, Barbara Ray Cox in 1961 while employed at British American. They worked in different departments but were introduced by a mutual friend and began dating. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married in November, 1962 in Dallas, Texas.
Bobby and Barbara were blessed with 2 children, Bobby and Delaine, and nothing was more important to them.
Though he loved horseracing and travelling, Bobby’s most precious thing in life was being a grandparent. He treasured his time with his grandkids, never failing to attend their soccer, baseball, basketball and football games. He was great at spectator, cheerleader and coach! He also enjoyed watching their school performances and seeing their amazing art work he still has framed hanging on his walls today.
Bobby’s friends were like family to him. They enjoyed activities together like going to Lake Texoma, traveling and seeing the World, attending horse races, playing cards, Poker and Bridge.
Bobby was most proud of his service role as a Fireman for the Dallas Fire Department. He was in the first group the Department rolled out of EMT’s trained as Paramedics. One of his most memorable events was the privilege to deliver a baby in the Ambulance. From then on, he was referred to as “Dr. Bobby” from the jokester fireman. The camaraderie and brotherhood among his peers is something Bobby really endeared. During his tenure, he also was an Engine Driver and before his retirement in 1987 from Station 5 in Pleasant Grove, he was the Driver for the Battalion Chief. Bobby knew the streets of Dallas like the back of his hand. No GPS needed.
Bobby was an active member of Wiltshire Baptist Church actively involved in visitation and service work.
Bobby is lovingly remembered for his care of others. He did not know a stranger and would give anyone the shirt off his back. Bobby loved telling jokes and loved to laugh. We couldn’t have asked for a better parent/grandparent/friend, and will miss him every day. Bobby’s memory will surely live on in the hearts of all those who knew him.
Robert was preceded in death by his Parents; George E. Drown, Cleo Drown, Spouse; Barbara Ray Drown, Son; Robert Ray Drown, and is survived by his Daughter; Delaine Diffee, Grandsons; Austin Arledge & his wife Taylor Arledge, Dillon Diffee & his wife Sydnie Diffee, Payton Diffee, Great Grandchildren; Aiden Arledge, Ainsley Arledge and Beau Diffee
Visitation is Thursday, August 14th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at Restland, and the Celebration of Life Service is Friday, August 15th, at 10:30 am at Restland.
Donations to https://www.americanbrainfoundation.org/ would be greatly appreciated.
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