Robert Clifton Fox Sr.

Robert Clifton Fox, 90 years old, of Ellenton, Florida, passed away on November 29 at Riviera Palms Nursing Home. Robert was born January 20, 1935 in Okeene, Oklahoma (Blaine County), the son of Samuel G. and Luevina Schale Fox. Robert graduated from Corn Bible Academy in 1953 then went on to Bob Jones University earning a degree in Bible. There, he continued to earn a Masters Degree in Education.

Robert married Elvera Mae Ollenburger in July, 1953 in Okeene, Oklahoma. Elvera passed away June 27, 2001 in Denver, Colorado. Their wedding was held at the Okeene Mennonite Brethren Church. Robert and Elvera were high school sweethearts who both attended Corn Bible Academy and married soon after their graduation. Robert and Elvera had two sons, Robert C. Fox, Jr. – deceased and Ronald, in Greenville, SC, while working on his Bible degree. Their daughter, Rosalyn, was born in Weatherford, Oklahoma while teaching at his alma mater, Corn Bible Academy.

Sadly, Robert saw two other wives, Frances Epp from Cordell, Oklahoma and Bonnie Vette from Colorado Springs pass away. Robert is survived by his son, Ronald Charles Fox of Ellenton, Florida, his daughter, Rosalyn Cheryl Iverson of Grimes, Iowa, ten grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Robert spent most of his working years as a music teacher, music pastor, and principal at Christian schools and churches in Corn, Oklahoma, Garland, Texas, Kansas City, Missouri, Panama City, Florida, Lakewood, Colorado, and Greenville, South Carolina.

Robert was highly accomplished in his school music teaching, especially in the choral area. His choirs and ensembles won numerous awards, enjoyed many choir tours, singing in churches and Christian schools.

Robert was well-loved by his students who knew him as a high-energy motivator, mixing fun and humor in his teaching. As a church choir director, he fostered a genuine love for singing and ministering to God first, but also to the hearts of God's people. Robert's family, both his children and his extended family, have fond memories of the fun and warmth that he often gave.

Robert's immediate family will have a private, intimate memorial service while preparing a Facebook album in the near future. Robert's grave is alongside Elvera Mae at the Ebenfeld Cemetery, Okeene, Oklahoma where Robert and Elvera are the fourth generation interred there. For those wishing to show their love for him, in lieu of flowers, please contribute to a music scholarship fund at Community Christian School in Bradenton, Florida by contacting gzern@commbapt.com.