Robert J. Letson

1925 - 2023

Robert J. Letson - professor, father, grandfather, great-grandfather - enjoyed a long, full life of 98 years plus one day: 6/22/1925 - 6/23/2023. He passed away at TMC Hospice Peppi's House, surrounded by the love of his family members. Born in Missouri and growing up in Tulsa, Okla., he became a long-distance runner and star student. As a young man at a Presbyterian summer conference, he met Shirley Ann (Shann) Hargraves, and corresponded with her during his service in World War II. He enlisted in the US Merchant Marine / Coast Guard, Chief Radio Officer, and served until 1947. That's when he married Shann, the love of his life, with whom he would share everything for over 70 years, until her death in 2018. Shann was with him as they started their Baby-Boom family while he earned advanced degrees, including his doctorate in Education at the University of Missouri. They moved to Tucson in 1956 to launch Bob's career at the University of Arizona as a professor of secondary education. His UA career lasted several decades, except for six years in administration with Carlsbad, NM, public schools. After his UA retirement, Bob and Shann became intrepid travelers and home exchangers, making lasting friends around the world.Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Orrin and Ethel Letson; by his brother, Joseph Letson; by his wife, Shann; and by his second child, Marcia Sisley (survived by husband of 46 years, James Sisley). Loving family members who remain are son Michael Letson (Marjorie) and daughter Sherry Letson (Bobby Whipple). Grandchildren are Amy Whitehurst (Randy), Joseph Letson (Jackie), Eva Letson, Lisa Sisley, Clayton Letson, Nicholas Letson, Nathaniel Letson, and Laura Dascha Letson. Great-grandchildren are Matthew Sisley, Lois Letson, Logan Whitehurst, Christopher Whitehurst, Geneva Whitehurst, and newborn Dove Michael Letson. And a special thank-you for nurturing caregivers, Stacia and Jackie, who tenderly aided Bob and Shann for so many years.A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, July 23, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 400 E. University Blvd. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund. Arrangements by Avenidas Cremation of Tucson.