Robert Tufts

Robert "Bob" Lee Tufts, 84, of Hillsboro passed away Friday, October 9, 2026, at Baylor Scott & White Hospital in Waco. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 19, 2026, at Marshall & Marshall Funeral Directors Chapel in Hillsboro with Curt Schneider officiating. Burial will follow at Abbott Cemetery in Abbott, TX. Visitation will be held from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 19, 2026, at the funeral home.

Robert was born on January 7, 1942, in Dallas County, Texas, to Gilbert and Usa Lee (Hastings) Tufts. He grew up in Hillsboro, Texas, and graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1960. As a young man, Robert worked alongside his parents on their farm, where they raised and showed Polled Hereford cattle.

In 1965, Robert joined his parents in opening the Turkey Shop in Abbott, Texas. He continued to operate the business until 2004, becoming a familiar and friendly face to generations of customers. You could often find Robert at the end of the line, ready to ring up your order.

Robert was dedicated to serving his community. He served as a member of the Abbott Independent School District School Board and the Abbott Volunteer Fire Department. He also served as Mayor of Abbott from 1995 to 2007, along with serving on the Abbott City Council both before and after his mayoral terms. Robert was also a loyal supporter and fan of the Abbott Six-Man Football Team.

Outside of his work and community service, Robert had a lifelong interest in trains. He enjoyed taking train trips and spent countless hours reading about trains and watching videos to learn more about them. He always kept an eye out for trains passing through town, especially the historic Big Boy No. 4014. Robert also enjoyed gathering with family to play dominoes, especially the games of 42 and 84.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brother, Benny Tufts; and the mother of his children, Audrey (Mitchell) Tufts.

Survivors include his son, Bryan Tufts and wife, Cathy of Houston, and daughter Aprille Kaska and husband Ryan of Abbott. His grandkids Kyndall Stanislav and husband, Kyle, of Waco, Michael Kaska, Johnathan Tufts, and Nathan Tufts of Houston. His brothers Bill and Anita Tufts, of Hillsboro, Barry and Dolores Tufts of Abbott, and Buddy and Frances Tufts of Tours; many nieces and nephews; and his cat Ginger and great-grand cat, Sully.

Memorials may be made to Hill County Paw Pals or a charity of one's choice.