Bob Waldo

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Robert E. Waldo, lovingly known as Bob, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the age of 76 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO. A resident of Fairland, OK, Bob will be fondly remembered for his hardworking spirit, deep faith, and dedication to his family and community.

Born on October 7, 1948, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Bob was the beloved son of Bobbie and Pearl Waldo. After proudly serving his country in the United States Army, where he achieved the rank of Specialist 4th Class, Bob went on to build a life rooted in family and hard work.

For most of his career, Bob was self-employed in the flooring installation business, where he earned the respect of his clients and colleagues through his commitment and craftsmanship. He found great joy in his work, but his true passion was his family and his faith. Bob and his beloved wife, Christy, whom he married on August 8, 2008, were active members of James River Church in Joplin, MO, where they found a strong and supportive community.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, James Waldo.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Christy, and his large, loving family: five sons—Steve (Suzette) Waldo of Carthage, MO; Robert (Christy) Waldo of Haughton, LA; Tyson Waldo of Carthage, MO; Brycen (Maddie) Smothers of Carthage, MO, and Javier Rodriguez (Andrea) of Webb City, MO; six daughters—Mary Jo Waldo (Joshua) of Sioux City, IA; Holly (Caleb) Gulick of Joplin, MO; Lindsey Smothers of Carthage, MO; Allie Smothers of Carthage, MO, Cheyenne Hall of Joplin, MO, and Allison Hall of Miami, OK. He also leaves behind two sisters, Bonnie Callahan of Ochelata, OK, and Marilyn Petty of Kilgore, TX.

Bob was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren: Natalie, Jarod, Justice, Katelyn, Heaven, Abbie, Deven, Samantha, Joseph, Isabelle, Shaenelle,Talan,Theodore, Orion, Natalie R., and Luna, as well as two great-grandchildren, Kaleb McDaniel and Kayce Mathis. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Bob’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to his family and faith will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.


Celebration of Life services will be held at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home Chapel in Miami, OK on November 16, 2024 at 10 A.M. Services have been placed in the care of Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.