Robert Eugene Cantey, 70, a dedicated machinist for many years, co-owner of Dora Buck Deer Farm, and an avid outdoorsman, passed away on May 14, 2024, in Pryor, Oklahoma. He was born on November 11, 1953, in Richmond, California. Robert found joy and fulfillment in various activities such as fishing, hunting, golfing, watching NASCAR races, and spending time outdoors cultivating his beloved deer farm. His commitment to his work and nature shone through every aspect of his life. Not only was Robert dedicated to his career and hobbies, but he also served his country with honor in the United States Navy aboard the USS Dixon. On December 31, 1979, Robert married the love of his life, Patricia Humphrey, in Reno, Nevada. Their union of 44 years was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Robert's legacy of hard work, love for nature, and dedication to his family will continue to inspire all those whose lives he touched.
Robert will be deeply missed by his surviving family members including his beloved wife Patricia Cantey of the home; daughters, Nancy Schaumburg and husband Walt of Pryor, Shannon Cantey-Birkes and husband Steve of Pryor, and Sally Cantey of Windham, Arizona; brothers, Orvel Ballew of Muskogee and John Ballew and wife Lori of Pryor; sister, Linda Morris of Olympia, Washington; 7 grandchildren, Hank Williams, Jr. and wife Brittany, Robert Williams, Steven Schaumburg and Dustie, Wesley Schaumburg and Nae, Samantha Kohler-Ratcliff and husband Owen, Andrew Kohler and wife Jaiden; and Alicia Wyatt and husband Trey; 15 great grandchildren, Patrick, Kelsey, Karlee, Kaylee, Patricia, Remmy, Rayn, Rylan, Ameria, Cameron, Jacob, Audrey, Elijah, Ensley, and Emberlyn; special friend, Kelly Wilson; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other relative and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Fred Cantey; mother, Doris (Hunt) Ballew; son, Hank Williams, Sr., brother, Frank Cantey; brother-in-law, Bill Williams; and sister- in- laws, Linda Cantey and Bertie Williams.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Shipman's Funeral Home Chapel in Pryor with Chaplain Eddy Bob Mathews officiating. Burial will follow in the Spavinaw Strang Cemetery with Hank Williams, Jr., Robert Williams, Steven Schaumburg, Wesley Schaumburg, Andrew Kohler and Kelly Wilson serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers will be Orvel Ballew, John Ballew, Walt Schaumburg, Steve Birkes, Patrick Williams, Owen Ratcliff and Trey Glass. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, May 20, 2024, at Shipman's Funeral Home. To leave his family a message, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service.