Robert Francis (Bob) Middleton

Robert Francis (Bob) Middleton passed away on Feb. 21, 2023. He was born on June 5, 1936, to Viola and Floyd Middleton. Bob grew up in Nevada, Mo., and graduated from Nevada High School in 1954. He then studied at the University of Arkansas, where he received his BS and JD degrees and was editor of the law review.

Bob began his distinguished law career in the 1960s in Missouri where he was a defense trial attorney and was elected President of the Young Lawyers Association. He later served as head of litigation at several Dallas law firms and was certified as a specialist in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Bob was very involved in the formation of the Litigation Section of the American Bar Association at the local, state and national level. He served as a trial lawyer of counsel until the end of his life and was proud to have had a legal career that spanned over 60 years. Bob was a skilled litigator, a trusted counselor and advocate for clients, a key partner in successful law firms, and a dedicated mentor to younger attorneys.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Kathryn Rasmussen. Surviving are his daughter, Christy Reese and husband Mike; son, Michael Cope Middleton and wife Kim; and daughter, Cathy Jurgensmeyer and husband Brian. Survivors also include eight grandchildren, Catherine Wells (Devin), Brooks Middleton (Maddie), Sarah Jurgensmeyer (Nick), Abby Middleton, David Jurgensmeyer, Luke Jurgensmeyer, Michael Reese, and Andrew Reese; and three great-grandchildren, Libbie Middleton, Sophie Wells, and Donnie Middleton.

Bob was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church, and he received joy from serving others. He inspired all who knew him to continue growing in faith, in knowledge and in friendships throughout their whole lifetime. Bob was a dedicated and loving father and grandfather whose impact on his family will never be forgotten.

A service of remembrance will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, March 3, in the Cox Chapel-Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas.

Gifts in Bob’s memory may be made to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation.