Robert Lee Joplin

Funeral services for Robert Lee Joplin, 85, of Lufkin will be held Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Andy Pittman officiating. Graveside services with military honors and Masonic rites under the auspices of the Lufkin Masonic Lodge #669 A.F. & A.M. will follow in the Walker Cemetery.

Mr. Joplin was born December 11, 1925 to the late Ola (Ritnour) and Andrew Joplin in Garrison, Texas. He died Saturday, August 6, 2011 at his residence.

Mr. Joplin joined the CCC, also known as the Tree Army, and served at Zavalla and Alto, Texas and Pioche, Nevada. After he returned home, Mr. Joplin worked at the pole plant and brick yard in Garrison until he entered the U.S. Army in January 1944. He was sent to Europe in September 1944 to serve in the 65th Division of Patton?s Third Army and participated in combat, including the Battle of the Bulge. Following VE Day he relocated refugees from Eastern Europe back to their homeland. Mr. Joplin was furloughed in September 1945 and returned home to marry his longtime sweetheart, Betty Pansy Brown, who died June 19, 2011 after 65 years of marriage.

Mr. Joplin was a 32nd degree mason with the Lufkin Masonic Lodge #669 A.F. & A.M. and a life member of the Lufkin VFW. He retired from the National Linen Service after 40 years, where he was known by many Angelina County and East Texas residents. After retirement he raised cattle, fished and enjoyed deer hunting with his friends. He also enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his daughters, Jill Belvin and husband Arthur of Spring and Ailene Martinez and husband Robert of Pleasure Island; grandsons, Christopher O?Brien of Lufkin and Connor Belvin of Spring; granddaughter, Jordan Belvin of Spring; brother, Floyd Joplin and wife Wonda of Nacogdoches; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Joplin was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Pansy Joplin; sisters, Ivah Butler, Lerma Orum, Ruby Hallman and Aileen Joplin; and brother, Frank Joplin.

Pallbearers will be Connor Belvin, Christopher O?Brien, Billy McGuire, Byron Williams, Randy Stephens and Klint Hensley.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer?s Association, Greater East Texas Chapter, P.O. Box 630636, Nacogdoches, Texas 75963.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.