The Man. The Myth. The Legend.
In Loving Memory of Robert Davis Gilkey
January 2, 1958 – July 2, 2026
With profound sadness and endless love, we announce the passing of Robert Davis Gilkey, who peacefully entered the arms of his Lord on July 2, 2026, at his home in Eastland, Texas, at the age of 68.
Robert was born on January 2, 1958, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to William Edward Gilkey and Carrie Davis Gilkey. He grew up along the Texas coast and graduated from Mary Carroll High School in 1976. Even from a young age, Robert possessed a spirit of adventure, a love for music, and a determination that would define the rest of his life.
On Groundhog Day, February 2, 1980, in Hico, Texas, Robert married his best friend and the love of his life, Brenda Gail Foreman Gilkey. They often smiled knowing they were married on Groundhog Day, a date that became part of their family’s story for the next 46 wonderful years. Together they built a home in Eastland, Texas, where they raised their three children: Jessica, Jason, and Jamie.
Shortly after they married, Robert began the career that became his life’s work. For 36 years, he proudly worked in the oilfield, a profession that took him across West Texas, throughout the United States, into the Middle East, and overseas. He worked both on land and at sea, never afraid of hard work or long days. He was proud to be an oilfield man and took great satisfaction in providing for his family through dedication, perseverance, and sacrifice.
While Robert was known for his incredible work ethic, he also knew how to enjoy life. He loved surfing, skateboarding, drag bikes, go-karts, and anything that could satisfy his need for speed. Music was woven into the fabric of his life. He loved playing the drums, attending concerts, and was proudly ZZ Top’s biggest fan. One of his favorite sayings came from one of their songs:
“I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide.”
Anyone who knew Robert would agree—that phrase fit him perfectly. He lived boldly, laughed often, and carried himself with confidence, humor, and a heart that was larger than life.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, William Edward Gilkey and Carrie Davis Gilkey, and his brother, William Edward Gilkey Jr.
He leaves behind the love of his life and devoted wife of 46 years, Brenda Gail Foreman Gilkey.
He is lovingly survived by his children:
- Jessica Whitt and husband, Justin Whitt
- Jason Gilkey and wife, Courtney Gilkey
- Jamie Tedford and husband, Blake Tedford
His grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of his life:
- Mason Gilkey
- Miranda Perez and husband, Elian Perez
- Marley Gilkey
- Abrianna Conlon and husband, Patrick Conlon
- Jayden Gilkey
- Tyler Gilkey
- Kaylee Gilkey
- Brinley Tedford
- Boston Tedford
He was also blessed with two precious great-grandchildren:
- Atlas Taylor
- Elian Perez Jr.
Robert’s legacy is one of strength, loyalty, adventure, and unconditional love. He taught his family the value of hard work, perseverance, and never being afraid to chase life’s next adventure. Whether he was halfway around the world on an oil rig, behind a drum set, riding something fast, or surrounded by family sharing stories and laughter, Robert lived every day with passion and purpose.
His family will forever remember his quick wit, his unmistakable laugh, his love of music, and the countless stories that only Robert could tell. Though he has left this earthly life, the memories he created and the love he gave will continue to live on through the generations that follow.
A Final Farewell
Some men leave behind possessions.
Others leave behind memories.
Robert left behind a legacy.
A legacy of love for his family, pride in an honest day’s work, unforgettable adventures, laughter that could fill a room, and stories that will be told for generations.
As we say goodbye, we find comfort in knowing that his race has been run, his work here is complete, and he has found peace. Every beat of a drum, every classic rock song, every roaring motorcycle, every sunset over an oilfield, and every gathering of family will remind us of the remarkable man he was.
Though our hearts are broken, we are forever grateful that he was ours.
Rest easy, Dad.
You will forever be our hero…
The Man. The Myth. The Legend.
Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.
