Robert R. Bartran II of Laurel, MS, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at his residence. He was born on February 26, 1944, in Laurel, MS.

Robert, “Robby” was truly one of a kind- a special character with a personality that was impossible to forget. He had many nicknames such as Guy, Robear, Did, Socrates, and so on. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He was funny, goofy, and at times wonderfully embarrassing to his children and family, often leaving those around him with no choice but to laugh. He loved people freely and had a remarkable ability to accept others without judgment.

In his professional life, he took pride in his veteran status and service in the military, and his career at Schlumberger. All done in his blue coveralls.

During the last few years of his life, Robby struggled with dementia, which slowly took away some of the larger-than-life personality his family knew and loved. But dementia could never erase the man he had been, the laughter he created, or the memories he left behind. Robby lived his life as funny, outgoing, accepting, sometimes embarrassing, and always unforgettable, His family will miss his voice, humming, his stories, his silliness, and simply having him here.

This world is a little quieter without him in it, but the light he brought into the lives of those who loved him will never be forgotten. Rest peacefully, Guy. You were truly one of a kind, and there will never be another you.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert R. Bartran Sr. and Melba Knight.

He leaves behind his wife of 57 years Nina Ann Bartran, children, Robert “Bart” Bartran III (Angela), Regina Ann Bartran, Walter Harper Bartran (Jennifer). grandchildren, Tristan Bartran, Grayson Bartran, Adelaide Dixon, Karsten Bartran, Collin Bartran, Emily Dixon, Madison House, and Natalie House great-grandchild, John Allen Bartran, brothers, Frank Bartran (Maylon), Roy Bartran (Susan), and Randal Knight, sister, Marcelle Harwell (Tom). A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, Lebanon Baptist Church in Laurel MS from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 AM at the same location, with burial at 11:00AM Lebanon Baptist Church Cemetery. Bro Harold Floyd and Bro. Ken Riley will officiate. Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, MS.

Pallbearers will be Karsten Bartran, Addy Dixon, Justin Parker, Ben Smith, Daniel Bartran, and Chuck Gatzman.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tristan Bartran, Ruben Bryant, and Renard Harper.