Robert Lee King , Sr.

Robert Lee King, Sr., a devoted husband, loving father, and dedicated servant to his community and church, peacefully departed this life on April 13, 2025, at the age of 83.

 Born in Bentonia, MS. on May 26, 1941, to Cleveland and Lula King. Robert was raised with strong values of faith, family, and service. These values guided him throughout his life, shaping the legacy he leaves behind.

Robert served as a firefighter for an extraordinary 35 and a half years, achieving the rank of Battalion Chief in Gary, Indiana. His courage, commitment, and compassion made a lasting impact on the city he so deeply loved. He was also employed at The Gary Public Library for 30 years. Beyond the firehouse, Robert was a pillar in his church and community, faithfully serving as a deacon, where his wisdom and quiet strength ministered to many. He loved singing in the Male Chorus at St. John Baptist Church. No matter what the day or the time, Robert was happy, smiling, and filled with an encouraging word.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Irene King; his parents, Cleveland and Lula; his siblings, Cleveland, Eddie, Emily, Eugene, Oswald, Cora, Louis, and Richard; son-in-law, James Denson; and granddaughter, Kamille.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory his three children; Pam Denson, Robert King, Jr., and Kevin King.; brother, Henry (Mary) King, as well as 7 grandchildren, Donta Denson, Sr., Sherard (Marie) Denson, Domonique King, Ryan King, Khobi Price, Kameron King, and Karter King; 6 great-grandchildren;  Donta (Celon) Denson, Jr., Alphonso Denson, Darius King, MaKayla Denson, Ellis Denson, and Reese Denson, who affectionately call him Pops, goddaughter, Niyeshia Shaw, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever miss his kind heart, strong spirit, and unwavering faith.

Robert Lee King, Sr. will be remembered for his steadfast love, his lifetime of service, and the powerful example he set for all who knew him. Though he has departed this earthly life, his legacy will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. with Homegoing Services 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. from St. John Baptist Church 2457 Massachusetts Street Gary, Indiana 46407. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park 3815 West 39th Avenue Hobart, Indiana 46342.

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