On September 1, 2021, Robert Milton Fennell, Sr. transitioned from this life to eternity at the age of 76 with his sons by his side.

Robert was born to Samuel and Pearl Fennell on July 5, 1945 in Dallas, Texas. He was the youngest of four children. After graduating from Booker T. Washington High School (Dallas) in 1962, he attended Prairie View A&M University. He was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in the Vietnam War before he could complete his degree. Robert was awarded the Purple Heart for a casualty he suffered in the line of duty. Following his discharge from the military, he returned home and enrolled at North Texas State University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.

Robert spent his career at the Denton State School, serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He married his former wife of 21 years, Saralyn Scott. Together, they had two children: Tiffanie Janine and Robert Milton, II.

Robert's children and grandchildren were the source of his proudest moments and greatest joy. In addition to spending time with his family, he enjoyed reminiscing with old friends, watching westerns, listening to R&B and jazz, and playing his maracas.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Dolores Wallace, Margaret Manor, and Samuel Fennell, Jr. He is survived by his former wife, Saralyn Scott, and their children; his eldest son, Rodney D. Fennell (his mother, Linder Hawthorne); and two grandchildren: Samara Josephine Fennell and Wallace Scott Williams.

Robert will be remembered best for his sense of humor, devotion to family, resilience in the face of adversity, and generosity.