Robert Thomas Padilla was born on March 22, 1945, in San Bernardino, California, to Enriqueta Padilla (Melendez) of El Paso, Texas, and Fernando Padilla of Los Angeles, California. He passed away on August 24, 2026, in Redlands, California, at the age of 81.

Robert lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, service, and a deep love for his family. He attended Pacific High School for three years before continuing his education at Fontana Adult Education, where he earned his GED in 1973. He later attended Valley Community College, earning his Associate of Arts degree.

In 1965, Robert proudly answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He served from 1965 to 1967 and held the rank of Private (P) E-1. His military service was an important part of his life and a source of pride. Among his military honors were the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and Sharpshooter qualification with the M-14 rifle. He was honorably discharged from his military service.

Robert built a long and hardworking career in the lumber and agricultural industries. He worked as a lumber worker, lumber grader, lumber yard superintendent, and agriculture consultant. His knowledge, determination, and strong work ethic were hallmarks of his professional life.

In 1970, Robert married Shirley Walker Padilla in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together they shared four children: Robert Thomas Padilla, Antonio Thomas Padilla, Shawna Lyn Padilla-Simon, and Victoria Lyn Padilla.

In 2021, Robert married Nancy Barbero Padilla in Laughlin, Nevada, beginning another chapter of companionship and love.

Robert is survived by his wife, Nancy Barbero Padilla; his children, Robert Thomas Padilla, Antonio Thomas Padilla, Shawna Lyn Padilla-Simon, and Victoria Lyn Padilla; his siblings, Antonio (Tony) Padilla and Lucille (Sheila) Padilla Allen; and his five beloved grandsons, Robb Padilla, Isaac Padilla, Zach Padilla, Aaron Simon, and Benjamin Simon.

Robert's five grandsons held a very special place in his heart. Robb, Isaac, Zach, Aaron, and Benjamin brought him tremendous joy and pride. The memories, stories, wisdom, and love he shared with each of them will remain with them throughout their lives.

Robert will be remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted father and grandfather, a loving husband, a proud United States Army veteran, and a man who dedicated much of his life to providing for and caring for those he loved.

His life was rich with family, work, service, perseverance, and memories that will continue to live on through those who knew him. Although his passing leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of his loved ones, the legacy he created through his family will endure.

Robert's memory will live on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory forever remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.