ROBERT LEE PYLES
Robert Lee Pyles, a resident of Bandera, TX passed away on May 31. 2023, at the age of 79. Born February 24, 1944 to Woodrow & Mildred Pyles in Charleston, West Virginia, he was instilled with all things good such as The Bible, a love for the outdoors and serving his country.
His father, a Purple Heart recipient, served in the Navy aboard the USS Ommaney Bay during WWII, and while in the Northern Sulu Sea survived a kamikaze attack and floated in shark-infested waters at sea for 3 days before rescue. He was one of the lucky ones. Following his fathers lead, Bob enlisted in the Air Force at the young age of 17 and met the love of his life; Mary Lou Acuna, and they were married on September 19, 1964 at the Lackland AFB Chapel. Their love for dancing brought them together and they remained that way together - for 59 years! He served his country for 24 years before retiring, however, continued for another 4 in Civil Service. It was on a weekend drive when he stopped at a model home off of Hwy 16, which led him to his land purchase in Bandera, TX. Weekend trips became the norm then as he and his wife cut, cleared and burned cedar trees for weeks before finally building. Shortly after settling in, the two managed the Lake Medina Shores Owners Association and dutifully commenced the collection of dues, attempted past dues collection, maintained the pool, small putt-putt golf, playground, amongst many other HOA responsibilities. He also worked at the Lakeshore Volunteer Fire Department as the Assistant Fire Chief. Oh the stories he’d come home and tell! He also wrote, submitted and received a grant for a new Fire Engine, which he then proudly manned during a Fourth of July parade in downtown Bandera.
Bob was an avid reader, as is Mary Lou, and the duo were a ‘staple’ at The Bandera Kronkosky Public Library. He loved his Western Novels and checking out 3 at a time, and finishing them in record time, was the norm. If a book hadn’t hit the shelves yet, he was on the waitlist for it and when he’d receive that call... off to “town” he’d go, usually stopping in at Mi Pueblos for a Carne Guisada and a Bean, Potato and Egg taco or a DQ Chocolate Shake. Golfing was another hobby he enjoyed and shooting in the low to mid 80’s was ‘par for the course’. He was an avid Jeopardy watcher and he was extremely well at it... it’s a wonder why he never auditioned. His favorite thing to do-or not do-was relaxing on the porch, right off his bedroom, in his favorite recliner, with his daily read [or a solitaire game on his mobile], his Bill Miller’s mug full of sweet tea or an Arnold Palmer, and a good ol’ smoke while silently watching, then feeding and watering, the deer all the while taking in his beautiful view of the Texas hill country for miles on end, as he sat atop one of the highest points in the neighborhood of Lake Medina Shores. The Double D Ranch cross, which sits atop a hill towering 101 feet high off Hwy16, could be seen on a clear day, or through his binoculars on a misty one. Sundays were church and cologne day. Avon’s Black Suede was his favorite.
Bob will be sorely missed by many; friends and family alike. One particular group of friends at “The Trees” by The Copper Lantern for instance. He thoroughly enjoyed hanging out at the trees, watching everyone ‘do their thing’ whilst having his tea and a cigarette. Good times....
Bob is preceded in death by his loving parents Millie and Woody Pyles, as well as his sister Janet Hunter, brother-in-law Jim Hunter and sisters in law Judy and Janet Pyles. He is survived by his wife, MaryLou Pyles; children Gina and Robert Pyles II; Grandchildren Shane and Trevor Ruiz and Desiree Pyles. The “Charleston/Ohio” crew Valarie, Regina, Mark, Tina and countless other nieces, their spouses and children.... too many to name.
Services will be held on July 1st at Walker Memorial Chapel located at 8135 Whartons Dock Rd. in Bandera TX zip 78003 beginning at 10 AM. His wishes for cremation have been fulfilled so please join us as we gather and have a Celebration of Life. Food and refreshments will be served.