Robert Lee Becknell, Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, and respected member of the Quanah community, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday evening, June 3, 2026. Born on December 20, 1951, in Quanah to Robert Lee Becknell, Sr. and Frances McCrary Becknell, Bobby lived a life marked by dedication to family, hard work, and cherished passions.

Bobby's journey in life began in the very town where he would eventually return to leave a lasting impact. As a young man, he attended the University of Texas at Arlington, where fate brought him together with Nancy Elizabeth Peterson during their first year of college. Their love story began at a fraternity and sorority social event, a meeting that would forever shape their lives. After deciding with heartfelt determination, Bobby soon informed his father of his intention to marry his newfound love. The couple married on August 19, 1972, in Fort Worth, Texas, beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in love and mutual respect.

Bobby began his professional career as an engineer with Burlington Northern Railway, stationed in Oklahoma. It was during this period that his passion for training bird dogs grew, leading him to participate competitively in field trials over the years. His love for bird hunting and the companionship of well-trained dogs remained a treasured part of his life.

In 1983, following the passing of his grandfather, Bobby made the decision to bring his family back to Quanah to assist his father in running Becknell Hardware. Alongside managing the hardware store, he partnered with his father in farming operations, initially cultivating wheat and cotton before transitioning to hay to support their cattle operation. His love of rural life extended beyond crops and cattle, as he also raised goats, mules, and horses, demonstrating a lifetime commitment to the land and animals that were so deeply interwoven with his identity.

A passion of Bobby’s was his craftsmanship in building horse-drawn buggies. This interest evolved into an impressive collection of horse-drawn agricultural implements, highlighting his appreciation for tradition and history in agriculture.

Robert Lee Becknell, Jr. is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Becknell of Quanah; his daughters, Megan Stewart and her husband Bert of Waco, and Regan Moore and her husband Brian of Iowa Park; and his cherished grandchildren, Benton Stewart, Charlie Stewart, and Harper Moore. He is also survived by his sister, Jana Becknell Hardison of Vernon. Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee Becknell, Sr. and Frances McCrary Becknell.

A funeral service to honor his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in Quanah, with Dr. David Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Quanah Memorial Park. Family, friends, and loved ones are invited to a visitation from 6 to 7 p.m. on Sunday evening at Smith Funeral Home.

Bobby’s commitment to family, community, and the traditions he cherished has left an indelible mark on all who had the fortune to know him. His memory will be treasured, his love remembered, and his life celebrated by all who mourn his passing and honor his legacy.