Robert Hayden Slider Jr. || Obituary

Photo: Submitted

Robert Hayden Slider, Jr., of Paris, Texas, passed away Thursday, December 29, 2022, at Paris Regional Medical Center after a brief illness. His family will receive friends Monday, January 2, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Fry Gibbs Funeral Home, Paris, Texas. A private memorial will be held at  later date.

Robert was born July 13, 1965, in Jacksonville, Texas to Robert Hayden Slider, Sr., and Earline (Allen) Slider. He often spoke of how he grew up in an amazingly loving home and was so grateful to have had them as his parents. He married Shelia Gayle Sikes on April 11, 1992, in Paris Texas. To their union were born two sons, Robert Hayden Slider III (Trey) and Garrett Allen Slider.

Robert began his career in Paris as a reporter and columnist for The Paris News.During that time, he shared his wit and wisdom with the community in his unique, light-hearted way. His words and humor are a legacy for us all.

During his time with The Paris News, Robert’s love of community led him to serveas a Reserve Police Officer. His desire to be a part of his adopted hometown ledhim to also serve in Boys Scouts of America and Jaycees.

Next, Robert trained himself and became a computer specialist for The Computer Super Center in Paris. Without complaining or judging our lack of skill, he helped anyone who asked as we entered the world of computers and the burgeoning internet. No larger display of patience has ever been shown.

Robert transformed himself again and entered the world of bank security as he helped protect the accounts and investments at First Federal Community Bank. He learned a fierce work ethic from an early age, and he followed through with giving more than was expected in every area of service, employment and in life.

He loved to learn new things and was always in the middle of some great book. In his personal life, he made many wonderful friends through work, scouting, and in the community.

His family remained the center of his life in every way. He was an amazing husband and father who made sure he spoke to his sons at least once a week after they moved to begin careers away from Paris.

Robert is survived by his wife, Shelia, of the home, his sons, Trey and wife Zennia, of Austin, Texas, and Garrett, of San Antonio, Texas; his parents, Hayden and Earline Slider, his sister, Holly Herring and her husband, Timmy, along withnumerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Lamar County United Way or the Powderly Volunteer Fire Department.