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Robert Vernon
Chronister, Jr.
Mar 25, 1950 — Jun 12, 2025
Tulsa
Robert Vernon Chronister Jr., age 75, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, at OSU Medical Center after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, curiosity, and unshakable devotion to his family and alma mater.
Robert was born and raised in Hartshorne, Oklahoma, the beloved son of the late Robert Vernon Chronister Sr. and Georgianna Housley Chronister. A proud graduate of Oklahoma State University, Robert earned multiple bachelor's degrees and remained a loyal Cowboy for life—so much so that he often said he "bled orange." His love for OSU was a central part of his life, and for over 25 years, he cherished attending football games with his daughter Robyn and grandson Noah, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.
A true outdoorsman, Robert was an Eagle Scout whose passion for fishing, camping, and animals stayed with him throughout his life. His appreciation for nature was matched only by his deep love for music—especially the iconic hits of the 60s and 70s. Robert had an uncanny ability to identify any song and artist within seconds and could talk for hours about the music that shaped his youth.
Professionally, Robert served as an HR director for Parker Drilling, Mapco, and later retiring from L3 Communications in Tulsa. He was respected for his leadership, dedication, and integrity throughout his career.
Robert had a brilliant, inquisitive mind and a fascination with the mysterious. He was an avid fan of shows like The Curse of Oak Island and Skinwalker Ranch, and he shared this passion with his brother Gary through weekly conversations filled with speculation and wonder. His adventurous spirit once even led him to wreck his parents' new car chasing a UFO—an incident he recounted often, always with a twinkle in his eye.
Above all, Robert will be remembered for his warmth, wit, and the endless stream of riddles and jokes he shared with friends and family. His sense of humor lit up every room, and his stories will echo in the hearts of those who loved him.
Robert is survived by his children: Robyn Chronister, Valerie Blevins, and Joshua Osteen; his cherished grandsons: Noah Chronister, Cole Burleson, and Cameron Nees; his brother and sister-in-law: Gary and Marilyn Chronister; his nephew: Dr. Justin Chronister; his niece: Dr. Stacy Chronister; and their children: Cade and Emory Chronister.
He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.
A funeral service honoring Robert's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20th, at First Baptist Church in Hartshorne, Oklahoma. with Pastor Daniel Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Hartshorne. Active pallbearers will be Noah Chronister, Cameron Nees, Cole Burleson, Joshua Osteen, Justin Chronister, and Cade Chronister. Honorary pallbearer will be Gary L. Chronister.
Friday
First Baptist Church of Hartshorne
Starts at 2:00 pm
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