Robert Lee Herbert

Robert Lee Herbert, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, was called home on the morning of May 31, 2025, at the age of 82, passing away peacefully in his sleep. Born on July 14, 1942, in Austin, Texas, Robert's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and the joy of living. Robert lived a full and vibrant life, surrounded by a family who adored him and a community that respected him.
From humble beginnings, Robert's industrious nature saw him take on various jobs. He picked cotton, washed dishes, and worked as a truck driver and bus driver before finding his calling at The University of Texas. There he spent thirty years in solid waste and recycling, working his way up to managing the program and supervising his work force. His legacy includes collaborating, designing and implementing the University's original recycling program, which remains largely unchanged to this day three decades later.
Robert's enthusiasm for life extended beyond his professional achievements. He was a man who loved to keep active and social, cherishing his time working out at the gym, race walking at Town Lake, and participating in organized races like the Cap 10K. His passion for fitness was matched by his pride in maintaining a pristine lawn and his love for his cars and pickups. These interests were more than hobbies; they were avenues through which he formed lasting friendships and shared laughter and stories. Robert was always a people person and he never met a stranger. At family and social gatherings, his anecdotes, often filled with humor and insight, were the highlight of every conversation.
Robert is survived by his wife, Sally Moore, who stood by him as a partner in all of life's adventures; his daughter, Rae Lynn Moore and her husband Herbert Furr; his grandchildren Samuel and Sydney Drosche; his brother Rubin Ross; children from his first marriage, Carolyn Bishop and Derrick Herbert; Carolyn's daughter Silanise Moten and her two young children Siyirah and Siliyah Moten; Idera Herbert-Aroh's daughter Jaylynn Griffin; nephews Robert Herbert, Jeffery Herbert, and David Herbert; and nieces Dorothy Payton, Claire Ockletree McQueen, Anita Cole, Leticia Thornton, Bridgette Cole, Pearl Ross-Vongphaeng, Jamekia Ross, and Laketia Ross.
Born and passed away in Austin, Texas, Robert's life came full circle in the city he loved. He was predeceased by his father, Robert Gentry Herbert; mother, Pearlie Lee Miller; his sisters, Dorothy Herbert Crawford, Charles Estella Ockletree and Annie Maxine Ross; and children from his first marriage, Idera Pearlette Herbert-Aroh, and Robert Christopher Herbert. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit remains a guiding force.
Robert Herbert's life story is one of resilience, strength, and dedication. As we bid farewell to Robert, we celebrate the life of a man who was not only the heart of his family but also a friend to all he met. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit will live on in the memories that he has left behind. He will be deeply missed, and his influence will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in heaven, Robert; your journey has been a beacon of light that will guide us through our own.
A public visitation will be held Monday June 9th from 5:00PM- 7:00PM at Harrell Funeral Homes of Austin. A Funeral service will be held Tuesday June 10th at 10:00AM at Harrell Funeral Home. A graveside will follow directly after at Evergreen Cemetery.