Robert Lee Willrich, Sr.

Robert Lee Willrich, Sr. was born on February 28, 1939, in Lexington, Texas, to Florida Mae Milligan and Eddie Willrich, Sr. He attended school in the Lexington and Doak Springs communities and graduated from Giddings Colored High School in 1957, where he excelled in football and basketball.

While walking the halls of high school, Robert met the love of his life, Gladys Bradshaw. Together they shared 67 years of love, and created a life filled with cherished memories. Their union was blessed with three sons and one daughter. One of Robert’s proudest accomplishments was presenting each of his children with their high school diplomas during his years of service on the Lexington I.S.D. School Board.

As a young boy, Robert enjoyed trading comic books and started a small shoe-shining business in the community. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to a variety of careers throughout his life. Following high school, he worked as a school bus driver transporting students from Lexington to Giddings while also working part-time for Mutual Lumber Company in Giddings. He later worked at Butler Brick Yard in Elgin and the Aluminum Chair and Ladder Factory in Caldwell. In 1965, Robert began a distinguished 30-year career with Alcoa in Rockdale. He served as President of United Steel Workers of America Local 4893 and traveled throughout the country representing the union.

After retirement, Robert devoted much of his time to public service. He faithfully served the City of Lexington as Mayor for 18 years. Prior to becoming mayor, he completed three terms on the Lexington City Council. He also served on the boards of Combined Community Action and Bluebonnet Trails Community Services MHMR Center. His warm smile, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to serving others leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and dedication to his community.

Robert confessed his faith in Christ at an early age and began his Christian journey at New Hope A.M.E. Church under the leadership of Rev. A. J. Lewis. He later united with Corinth Missionary Baptist Church, where he remained a faithful member until his passing.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Florida Roberts; stepfather, James Roberts; father, Eddie Willrich, Sr.; grandmother, Cleo Milligan; grandfather, Rufus Milligan; sister, Stella Breedlove; brother-in-law, Ernest Breedlove; sister-in-law, Jeronia Roberts; nephews, Forrest Anderson and Darrell Anderson; and daughter-in-law, Melissa Willrich.

Left to cherish his memory and legacy are: his devoted and loving wife, Gladys Willrich; sons, Robert L. Willrich, Jr., Ronnie G. Willrich, Sr. (Clara), and Gregory K. Willrich, Sr. (Hope); and his daughter, Connie L. Wolridge, all of Lexington, Texas; his brother, Leslie Roberts of Houston, Texas; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; an adopted daughter, Marilyn Alexander of Lexington, Texas; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Robert’s life was a testament to faith, family, hard work, and service. His legacy will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know and love him.

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