Robert Hurt

Robert Hurt, 70, of Cypress, died Saturday, February 22, 2025. He was born May 19, 1954, in Beaumont, to Lyda Hurt Toups and William Hurt.

Robert’s life was a testament to service, leadership, and passion.

Robert served honorably in the United States Air Force, where he demonstrated his commitment to his country and his fellow service members. Following his military service, Robert’s spirit led him to become the founder and first president of the Golden Triangle Audubon Society, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. He served as president for the first three formative years, setting a strong foundation for the society’s future.

Robert’s interests and hobbies brought joy to his life and those around him. He was an avid birdwatcher and found peace and fulfillment working with his plants. His love for music shone brightly as he sang with the praise team, sharing his voice and spirit with the church community. He was very proud of his family, often bragging about his daughter, a registered nurse, and his son, an actor. His granddaughter, Khloe, had her own special place in his heart. He was proud of the husband and father his son-in-law, Kristian, had become and enjoyed seeing Matt so happy and spending time with his fiancé, Kate. He loved his wife, Tonja, “forever with all my heart!”

Throughout his life, Robert was deeply involved with his church. He held various roles, including leading worship, which allowed him to connect deeply with his faith and community. His dedication extended to working with the prison ministry, attending Promise Keeper events, and he cherished the spiritual growth he experienced during his Walk to Emmaus.

In addition to his many talents and pursuits, Robert held an Associate’s Degree in drafting, which he applied with creativity and precision throughout his career.

Robert’s legacy is one of kindness, leadership, and unwavering faith. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched and in the enduring impact of the Golden Triangle Audubon Society.

Survivors include his wife, Tonja Hurt; children, Krystal Barnard and husband, Kristian, and Matthew Hurt and fiancé, Kate Standley; grandchild, Khloe Barnard; sisters, Dianne “Dee” Aubey, Judy Doherty and husband, Mike, and Jamie Crow; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Al Toups; and brother-in-law, Rick Crow.

A gathering of Mr. Hurt’s family and friends will begin at 12:00 p.m., with his funeral service at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 28, 2025, at Procter Baptist Church, 4401 Jimmy Johnson Boulevard, Port Arthur. His interment will follow at Memory Gardens of Jefferson County, Nederland, under the direction of Broussard’s, 505 North 12^th Street, Nederland.

Memorial contributions in Mr. Hurt’s honor may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306 or to Golden Triangle Audubon Society, P.O. Box 1292, Nederland, Texas 77627-1292.

Robert will be dearly missed, but his spirit will remain with us always. May he rest in peace.