Robert "Bob" Coppedge

Robert “Bob” Coppedge, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, age 83, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, after a courageous battle.

Born on January 13, 1942, in Rotan, Texas, to Oneal “Red” and Wilma Coppedge, Bob grew up with the strong values that shaped his life—hard work, humility, and a genuine respect for others. He attended Hobbs High School before pursuing economics at New Mexico State University. He later earned his Ph.D. from Oregon State University, opening the door to what became a long, meaningful, and deeply impactful career.

Bob spent decades serving New Mexico through his work with New Mexico State University, where he became known not only for his expertise in economics but for his steadfast belief in helping rural communities thrive. His work took him across the state, from small farming towns to ranching communities, where he listened carefully, offered thoughtful guidance, and helped families and local leaders navigate challenges and opportunities. His colleagues admired his steady judgment, his gift for clear communication, and the kindness he showed to everyone who sought his counsel. Bob had a natural way of making people feel capable and supported, and many young professionals credit his mentorship as a defining influence in their own careers. His commitment to service left a lasting mark on the communities he served and the university he loved.

Bob will also be remembered for the depth and sincerity of his faith. A devoted follower of Christ, he lived his beliefs quietly but powerfully—through generosity, humility, patience, and compassion. He relied on his faith in every season of life, especially during difficult times, and he often reminded his family that God’s grace was sufficient in all things. Bob was the kind of man who prayed for others before praying for himself, who offered help before being asked, and who lived each day with gratitude for the blessings he’d been given. His faith was a constant source of strength, guiding the way he approached his work, his relationships, and the challenges he faced with courage and hope.

In addition to his devotion to family and faith, Bob found profound joy in the outdoors. He felt most at home under an open sky—whether setting out before dawn on a hunting trip, casting a line into a quiet stream, or sitting by a campfire sharing stories with the people he loved. He passed on that passion to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, teaching them how to track big game, clean fish, make a remote camp, and appreciate the peace and beauty of God’s creation. Many of the family’s most treasured memories were made on those trips, where laughter, lessons, and a little friendly competition were always part of the adventure.

 Throughout his life, Bob instilled in his family the values he lived by: integrity, honesty, humility, and the enduring importance of caring for one another. His legacy will carry on in the generations who follow him. 

Bob is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marie; his children Johnny (Christi), Gary (Annabell), and Lia; and his grandchildren Shane, Brandon (Crystal), Will (Brandi), Lynn (Brandon), Jene (Drew), Garrett, Lakyn, Marshall, Hunter, Cole, Audra, and Ava; as well as nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oneal and Wilma Coppedge; sister Vanita; brothers-in-law Chuck, Frank, and Johnnie; and his beloved grandson Justin. 

Services will be held at Las Cruces Church of Christ on December 20th at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to La Posada Hospice or Gospel Rescue Mission.