Shelby Robert

ROBERT,  SHELBY  JOSEPH  “COACH”

Shelby J. Robert, 83, former superintendent of Ascension Parish Schools, passed away on Sunday, July 17, 2022, at his home in Gonzales, LA. He was born on December 24, 1938, in Donaldsonville, LA.  He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Elynda Gayle Willis Robert, daughter Melinda Gayle Robert, sister Cheryl Robert Bourgeois (Russel), brothers- and sisters-in-law Jo Ann Robert, James and Liz Willis, Brenda Willis, Robert and Judy Nichols, Sharon Willis, and numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace J. and Marjorie Capello Robert, brother Ronald Paul Robert, and brother-in-law René Louviere.

Shelby graduated from Donaldsonville High School, Class of 1957, received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Nicholls State University, and served in the Army National Guard.  For 13 years, he coached baseball for the American Legion Post 98 in Donaldsonville.

He diligently served the Ascension Parish School System for 36 years as teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, Supervisor of Secondary Education (1979-89), Director of Auxiliary Services (1989-91), Assistant Superintendent of Schools (1991-93), and Superintendent (1994-99).

Shelby enjoyed hunting and fishing with his buddies, traveling with his family, and, after his retirement, attending the College World Series in Omaha with members of his family.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 22, at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church—445 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge from 9:00-10:00 AM with funeral services to begin at 10:00.  Interment will be at Greenoaks Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA.

Special thanks to the family members, friends, and caregivers who comforted and provided care for him and his family during this time.