Robert Vernon Sullenger Sr.

Robert Vernon Sullenger Sr. (Bob) passed away February 11, 2015 in Little Rock. He was born in East St. Louis, Illinois on Dec. 16, 1929, the son of Adron and Lovie Sullenger. Bob graduated from East St. Louis High School, Little Rock Junior College, Henderson State University (BSE), University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (MSE), and Southern Illinois University (Ph.D.). Bob was a starting tackle on the 1949 undefeated Little Rock Junior College football team, finishing the season with a win in the Little Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. He served two years (1952-54) in the US Army. In 1992, he retired as an educator with 40 years of service in the Little Rock and Pulaski County School Districts. He served as a teacher, coach, and administrator to thousands of students throughout his career. He coached football and track for 10 years during the early days of Hall High School, leading the track team to a state championship. He was also the first head football coach at Parkview High School. His last 12 years, he served as Principal of Sylvan Hills High School in Sherwood. He is preceded in death by his parents, Adron and Lovie Sullenger; his son Robert Vernon Sullenger Jr., and two sisters, Opal Shanklin of Collinsville, Illinois and Lucile Lindsey of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Beverly Canaday Sullenger; daughter, Sandra Register and husband Ellis "Scooter" of Little Rock; brother, Richard Sullenger and wife Ruby of Largo, Florida; sister, Dorothy Dennis of Barrington, Rhode Island; five grandchildren, Robert Sullenger III, Patrick Sullenger and wife Caroline, Randi Register Smith and husband Brian, Toni Register Tucker and husband Clarke, Joseph Sullenger and wife Laura; five great-grandchildren, Patrick Payton Sullenger, Everett Ellis Tucker, Robert Whittington Sullenger, William Jackson Sullenger, and Marion Francis Tucker. Bob was a member of Highland Valley United Methodist Church in Little Rock. He believed that a life with God present each and every day is what allowed him to persevere through the years. There were many positive events in his life, but he thought the most significant was when he met Beverly while attending Little Rock Junior College in 1949, a relationship that led to their marriage in 1953. Being able to spend quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren after retirement was a great joy for Bob. The children brightened his days and put a smile on his face. He and Beverly also enjoyed their weekend visits to their condominium on Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs. They enjoyed the excitement of going to Oaklawn Race Track as well. Bob also was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and could often be found spending his summer and fall days cheering them on. The family wishes to thank Dr. Joseph Beck and his nurses Karen and Pat, Dr. Malcolm Moore, Dr. Dean Kumpuris, Dr. Drew Kumpuris, Dr. Claudia Tolleson, Dr. Brian Bean, and Dr. Clark Smith for their compassionate care during his lengthy illness. Visitation will be held at Ruebel Funeral home on Friday, February 13, 2015 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Funeral services will held at 12 noon, Saturday, February 14, 2015 at Ruebel Funeral Home with burial services to follow at Pinecrest Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to Highland Valley United Methodist Church, 15524 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Ark. 72211.