Robert Lee Spalding May 27, 1942 - May 29, 2023

Robert Lee Spalding, 81, passed away in his home in Hamlin, Texas, on Monday, May 29, 2023. Visitation was held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at Adams-Foster-Ray Funeral Home in Hamlin, Texas. Funeral services were on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at The New Beginnings Church in Hamlin, Texas with burial in Hamlin Memorial Cemetery. Robert was born on May 27, 1942, in Rising Star, Texas, to Robert Glen and Martha Lee (Larkin) Spalding. He was the second of six siblings. He married the love of his life, Clara Mae Griffith of Anson, Texas, on September 23, 1960, at her grandmother’s home in Hamlin. Robert worked as a welder and mechanic before starting Spalding Dozer Service. He ran the business for over 50 years. Robert (Pawpaw) loved Clara Mae, his cars, his kids and grandkids, and his special friend, Patches (his cat). Robert is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers A.J. and Charles Earl; a sister, Velvoria; a grandson Braden Murphy; and great-grandson Gunner Edwards. Robert is survived by his love, Clara Mae; his children, Carolyn Spalding Schindler (Shane); Patsy Yvonne Spalding Garner (Jayson); Stacy Spalding Medford (Garland); Randy Spalding (Nicole); his 16 grandchildren; 37 greatgrandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren. Also, his siblings, Betty Fay Spalding Weaver (Billy); Roy Spalding (Shelia); Gerald Spalding (Johnnie); and numerous nieces and nephews.