Robert J Stearns

Robert (Bob) James Stearns was born August 6, 1930 and peacefully transitioned to Heaven on October 23, 2026. He was the middle child of five children born in Osage County to Chesley Raymond and Freeda Leola (Byers) Stearns. Robert was raised in a home where God was placed first in their lives. His parents and grandparents also instilled in their children strong work ethics.

Robert graduated from Sperry High School in 1948 and in 1950, he joined the Air Force and served four years in Texas, New Jersey, Colorado Springs and Alaska. After his military service, Robert returned home and earned his Bachelor of Business degree from the University of Tulsa.

Robert married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ann Edens in 1952. They moved to Claremore and were dedicated members of Sageeyah Baptist church and then faithful members of First Baptist Claremore for 40 years where he served as a deacon and on many committees within his church. They raised Steve and Susan with a strong faith in Christ and were active in their many activities. Robert also served as a Boy Scout leader for Steve’s troop.

Robert retired as Director of Purchasing at Tulsa Public Schools. He served as President of the Tulsa chapter of the National Association of Purchasing Management and served on the Board of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing.

Robert enjoyed hobbies of gardening, tinkering, repairing things and was always ready with a helping hand for anyone who needed it. If you needed a tool, he had at least one extra in his workshop. Robert especially loved having his family around and was a cherished grandfather to his granddaughters and great-grandchildren. There were always lawnmower rides, plenty of pop and treats, his special toast and lots of homecooked bacon.

He is survived by his son Steve and wife Stacey, daughter Susan Couch and husband Jeff; granddaughters Shea Casey, Shelby Rooney, Brooke Cochran, Kendall Shepherd, and Evann Couch; great grandchildren Reese, Rory and Reagan Casey; Ava, Harper and Scarlett Rooney, and Blair Shepherd. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary Ann Stearns, parents Chesley and Freeda Stearns, grandson Jay couch, sister Ruth Reynolds, brothers Ralph, Donald and Ray Stearns.

In Lieu of Flowers the family has asked for memorial contribution to be made to a charity of your choosing.