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Dr. Robert Franklin Sasser Jr.
1952 - 2016
Dr. Robert Franklin Sasser Jr.
1952 - 2016
Obituary
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Robert Sasser Obituary
Rob worked for Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools for over 30 years; first as a teacher at Carter-Lawrence, then as an Assistant Principal at Bailey Special Education School. Later, he was a Special Education Consultant, and, then Principal at Murrel, Harris-Hillman, Cavert, Charlotte Park, and Donelson Middle Schools. Rob retired as an Area Administrator and Middle School Director at the Board of Education.
Rob is survived by his soulmate and wife of 43 years, Elaine (Layne) Salsbury Sasser, daughter Lyllyan Blare (Princess), son Robby Sasser (Baby), granddaughter M'Liyah Grace Blare (the Miracle Muffin), and mother-in-law Ada Schewel Salsbury. He is also survived by brother Stephen Sasser and wife, Bonner of Atlanta, sister René Sasser of New Braunfels, TX, and brother-in-law David Salsbury of Denver, as well as ten wonderful nieces, nephews, and spouses whom he adored.
Rob Sasser, Layne's Bubba, was a hilarious, joyful, loving, irreverent, intelligent man. He was devoted to his family, as well as the teachers, principals, and students whose lives he touched. He always had a story to tell and wisdom to impart. He was generous in spirit and giving in life.
He is back riding his horse Double Deal forever. He will be missed by so many.
The family invites friends and family to join them between the 1 pm and 5 pm for a memorial celebration/gathering on Saturday, January 14th at Brentwood Roesch Patton Funeral Home 9010 Church St. E. Brentwood, TN 37027.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Middle Tennessee Boxer Rescue, Nashville Childrens Theatre or the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Arrangements under the direction of Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home, Nashville, Tennessee.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kevin Janaway
January 16, 2017
Condolences to the Sasser Family. So devastated by this tragic loss. Life will not be the same without Rob, and his excellent sense of humor and presence. He accomplished so much success in his short life. He made such a strong imprint on other peoples' lives.
Janet Coscarelli
January 13, 2017
Layne and Family: Sorry I cannot come today due to a previous engagement. My thoughts and good wishes are with you. Take care and "break a leg" in the future.
Tina Akins
January 12, 2017
Layne and Family, sorry for your loss. I didn't know Rob as well as most, but the few times that I saw Rob in New Braunfels, he did have a story or two to tell and was a joy to be around. He will be missed!
Lauryn Crabtree
December 14, 2016
I love you both so much. I continue to pray for you Layne and send my deepest sympathy. Rob was a great colleague and a wonderful compassionate man. He will be sorely missed.
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Jennifer Hamilton
December 12, 2016
Layne, I wish I could give you the biggest bear hug this minute. You and Rob were some of the first people I met at Peabody College and I was amazed that two wacky, zany, loveable people found each other to form a most amazing couple! Both of you made me laugh at a time when I really needed it and I will never forget either of you. You and your family are in our prayers. Peace be with you.
Lucy Organ
December 11, 2016
Rob was the funniest, calmest, most loving person that ever worked for MNPS. Through years of stranger and stranger directives, he could bring peace to the most impossible situation. Away from work he was just as wonderful and loving. He treated everyone exactly as everyone should treat one another, with respect, humor and love. He will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.
Paul Doyle
December 11, 2016
So sorry to lose Rob.....He was definitely one of a kind, his own man, and expressed himself freely and honestly. Nobody had more love and passion for students and colleagues than Rob. He had a magical ability to lift you up when your spirits were low. We never did work together but our paths crossed many times. He loved life and life loved him back through the friendships he enjoyed..
Paul Doyle - Fairview, TN
Lynda Miller
December 11, 2016
I had the great pleasure of meeting Rob when I was working at WKRN and we were the Project Pencil Partners for Harris Hillman. He was a wonderful guy that loved his family and was devoted to his children. I had the great pleasure of spending a lot of time with Rob and the faculty and students at Harris-Hillman. Special Olympics, was a date to prom for some special students and I'll never for get "Spam Jam" at Starwood. Rest in peace Rob and I was happy to run into you at Kroger one Sunday morning and now that short visit is even more special. You will be missed, you were loved for your heart and are loved by your family and friends. I am so sad you're gone but happy I had a chance to get to know you. I'll see you soon!
Judy Malone Crouch
December 11, 2016
So, so,sorry to hear of Rob's passing. Prayers of strength and faith for the family and everyone who,had the honor of calling him a friend. Will miss him.
Sherry Condon
December 11, 2016
Layne,
I am so sorry for your loss. Rob was one of the first people I met when I started working for MNPS. He was principal of Murrell at that time, and I was a CDIM teacher at Johnson Middle back in the day! I always admired him so much! He had a tremendous gift for working with kids and teachers! He always put a smile on your face and a laugh in your heart! I lost touch with you after I left Johnson, but always have such wonderful memories. I hope
God's love will bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Praying for you and your family.
Jeannette Tramontano (Couch)
December 11, 2016
So sorry for this lose. He touched so many, with his love of people, humor, and insight. I have many fond memories of working with Rob at Charlotte Park!
Jeannette Tramontano (Couch)
December 11, 2016
I have many fond memories of Rob as my principal at Charlotte Park!
Gray McKenzie
December 10, 2016
This makes me so sad. I knew Rob and "Laynee" in their early years - the beginning of soulmate status. I've wasted so many years not sustaining our relationship, and now the world is a little less because of his loss. I'm so sorry to hear this, Layne. The two of you had no equal. Love, Gray
Bebbie Minter
December 10, 2016
Rob's candle will burn brightly forever, as it has been, and will willcontinue to be passed down through all who knew and loved him. His legend in MNPS is larger than life.
Layne, my love and prayers are, and will remain, with all of you! I love and appreciate you!
Ann Garner Riddle
December 10, 2016
Love and prayers to all of you at this difficult time.
from Ann and Art Riddle
Lynn Miller Thomasson
December 10, 2016
Far too many years ago, Rob was my assistant principal at Bailey. 30 years of teaching in different districts and states, I never found another administrator to equal him. He gave so much to so many, and was the most fun guy in any room. Layne, my heart is breaking for you. RIP Mr. Sasser!
Nicole Coltharp
December 10, 2016
Layne - thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I didn't know your husband but we all share the same love for boxers and that counts for something. Please accept my condolences and prayers for peace today and for the days to come.
Stephen Fuchs
December 10, 2016
I will always be grateful for Rob's unstinting support and friendship. My heart is with Layne!
Kaul Bluestone
December 10, 2016
Rob Sasser was a wonderful person. His loss is tremendous. Love and condolences to Layne, family members, and friends. Rob was unique, clever, sincere, intelligent, compassionate, and talented. This world will always be missing him.
December 10, 2016
Layne, although I never had the pleasure of meeting your dear "Bubba," I feel I knew him. May God comfort you at this sad time and may Rob rest in peace. Ellen Parke
Judy Jackson
December 10, 2016
I have no words to express the loss I feel. Rob was such a caring, loving man, but smart and sassy too. My family loved him and will always miss him.
Sharon McKinley
December 10, 2016
Rob Sasser was a great man whom I worked with at DMS. I was a paraprofessional there with a student John Matejko and my two sons Bill and Jimmy. Rob will be sadly missed by many people. RIP my dear friend. Gone but never forgotten.
Ray Scott
December 9, 2016
I worked with Bob in Metro Schools for years. Upon my retirement as principal at Charlotte Park, Rob followed. My sympathy is extended to his family.
His ready smile and sense of humor will be remembered and missed!
Dr. Ray Scott
Teresa Butler
December 9, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends!
Wendy Phelps
December 9, 2016
I'm very sorry to hear this. Dr. Sadder was a very special man. He met him at Charlotte Park when he became principal. What a kind, patient and inspirational man. He became my friend. Prayers for his family
December 8, 2016
"Competent, confident, funny and caring are only few of the adjectives that describe Rob. I will always remember the original compositions he created for principal meetings. He epitomizes the kind of leadership that put people and their well being first. He was a very valued friend and colleague. He leaves a big hole but an even bigger legacy.
Tom Ward
Dottie Alcala
December 7, 2016
I remember meeting Rob when I visited his wife Layne. He was welcoming and very funny. He seemed to enjoy cooking and entertaining. I am sure he will be missed by many people and especially by his family. Layne holds a special place in my heart and she will be in my thoughts and prayers.
December 7, 2016
One of my favorite memories of Rob was how much he liked strong coffee. Being an early bird, he always made the 1st pot at work.
I would pour a cup--see its coal-like appearance and then holler,so he could be sure to hear, "Texas Tea". He would just say " I hear you".
I also like the way, he would just begin on a task. Many times, he would pick of the paper that described a project, and just begin! He wasn't exactly sure how it was going to come out---but beginning was just the best way to start!
So sorry for your loss.
Valee Sewell-Penn
December 6, 2016
Steve, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Vikki Vaughan
December 6, 2016
Rob Sasser was one of the finest men I had the honor and pleasure to work with at Metro Schools. He always had a smile on his face and a funny to share. Rob was an excellent principal and he worked tirelessly on behalf of his students with disabilities. His wonderful laugh and gentle way will be missed by so many, myself included. Rest in Peace, Rob.
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201 25th Ave North, Nashville, TN 37203
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