Robert 'Bob' Conkin

In Loving Memory Of Robert 'Bob' Conkin

Feb. 22, 1946 ~ June 17, 2023

Robert Neal Conkin (Bob), age 77, of Littlefield, TX, passed away peacefully in Lubbock TX, on Saturday, June 17, 2023, following a battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Bob, the eldest of two boys, was born in Littlefield, TX, to Neal and Dorothy Conkin on February 22, 1946. He grew up in Anton, TX, and graduated from Anton High School in 1965. He attended Texas Tech University and received his bachelor's degree in 1970. While attending Texas Tech he met Janet Shutes, his future wife, on a blind date. They married on July 15, 1972, at University Presbyterian Church in El Paso, TX, Janet's hometown. Bob decided to further his education and attended Southwestern State University in Weatherford, OK, and in 1973 obtained his master's degree in education. Ultimately, he received his Superintendent's Certification in 1984 from Texas Tech University.

Bob began his destined calling in education with encouragement from his Uncle Evans Pendergrass (Pendy), in El Paso School District, teaching elementary English and P.E. In 1974 Bob moved to Springlake-Earth and was retained at SE-ISD as a school counselor and administrative assistant. In 1981 SE-ISD hired him as the high-school principal. In 1986, his family moved two houses down when Springlake-Earth ISD appointed him as the new Superintendent of schools. Bob retired as superintendent of SE-ISD in 2003. He remained at S-E as their elementary and junior high principal until 2008, after dedicating nearly 50 years of his life to his passion, he retired. Through his life and career, he touched countless lives, instilling a sense of commitment and dedication in those around him.

However, Bob's life was not just limited to the classroom. He loved to engage with the community and students outside of school hours, showing a keen interest in their lives and dreams. Bob's love extended to his grandchildren, who he cherished and loved dearly. He spent countless hours with them, creating memories that they will treasure forever. Bob had an impact on the lives of so many, we know that his legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Bob's memory will be cherished and kept alive by his by his wife, Janet Conkin of Littlefield, TX; his son, Brian Conkin of Lubbock, TX; his daughter, Kristen and her husband, Josh McDonald of Lazbuddie, TX. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Aidan McDonald (19), Jacey McDonald (16), and Hannah Conkin (12), as well as his brother, Larry Conkin and his wife, Rita of Stamford, TX, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Neal and Dorothy Conkin.

Celebration of his life was held on Friday morning, June 23, 2023, at Littlefield Methodist Church, 700 W. 14 th St., Littlefield, TX 79339, with Ryan Smallwood officiating, burial immediately followed Anton Cemetery in Anton, TX.

Many thanks to Hospice of the South Plains for their loving care of Bob in his final months. Especially Elizabeth who was always joking with him and his nurse, Kelsi, and the wonderful memory care staff at Raider Ranch. During his final days and hours, they were so caring and loving to him and his family.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association of West Texas. You can donate by visiting https://www.alz.org/westtexas?form=alz_donate . Arrangements were under the personal care of Hillcrest Funeral Home.