Robert Edward Settles

Robert Edward Settles, 77, of College Station, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025. Born in Big Spring, Texas, on December 11, 1947, Robert lived a life of service, laughter, and quiet strength.

A proud graduate of Texas Tech University, Robert earned his degree in Political Science in 1974. He dedicated over 30 years to a distinguished career in law enforcement, where he served his community with honor and integrity.

A devout Catholic, Robert was deeply involved in his faith throughout his life, attending and supporting both St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.

Robert was a man of many passions and quirks. An accomplished chess player, he was crowned a National Champion after winning the Class E title at the 2008 U.S. Class Chess Championship through the United States Chess Federation. He loved sharing his passion for the game by teaching both adults and children how to play. Known for always tipping with $2 bills and his uncanny Donald Duck impression, Robert brought smiles and laughter to everyone around him—especially his grandchildren.

He believed one of his callings in life was to encourage others, and he did so faithfully with a warm smile, a light-hearted joke, and a kind word.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Lynda Settles; his sons James (and Rachael) and John (and Detra); his stepdaughters Angela Reyna (and Zen) and Cindy Johnston; his cherished grandchildren: Chelsea, Christian, Jessica, Kaci, Alyssia, Cody, Madison, Kayla, April, Catherine, Lauren, Austyn, and Anaya; and his great-grandson, Thomas Beck.

He is also survived by his siblings-in-law: Wanda Oehlert, Jerry and Judy Enochs, and Keith and Judy Davis.

Robert was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James Edward “Big Daddy” Settles and Willie Frances “Polly” Thomas; his in-laws, Monroe and Ruth Davis; and his brother-in-law, Charlie Oehlert.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who feel so inclined to make a donation to Brazos Valley Hospice, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, or St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Robert’s memory.

Robert’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched with his humor, his encouragement, and his love for the simple joys of life.