Robert Lawrence Brogden SR., 92, passed away peacefully December 8, 2025 surrounded by family at the Reno County Hospice House in Hutchinson, Kansas. Robert was born June 1, 1933 in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Delta Homer Brogden SR. and Ruby Grace Willis. He was the eldest of eight siblings: Silvia, Franklin, Deneice, Linda, Carolyn, Jeanette, Delta, JR. and John Henry.
Robert was drafted into the Army in June of 1953. Following four years of serving in the Army, he joined the Air Force and served for 23 years before retiring. It was during his service in the Army in 1954, that he met his beloved Billie Bates in Nicodemus, Kansas. The two were married at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Damar, Kansas, November 23, 1957. They spent 53 wonderful years together and had four beautiful children: Robert, Rodney, Sherri and Dianna.
Robert had various jobs since retiring from the Air Force, but his most memorable job was working for the National Park Service in Nicodemus, Kansas as a maintenance man. He enjoyed visiting with those who stopped by and sharing the history of Nicodemus. It was a job he took such pride in.
For years, Robert maintained the position as Commander of the Nicodemus American Legion and was proudly an active member of the Kansas City Chapter for the Tuskegee Airmen as well. In 2017 he was selected to be a part of the Kansas Honor Flight for Veterans.
Deceased are his parents; wife, Billie Celistine; two brothers: Delta, JR. and John Henry, and one sister, Jeanette Brown.
He is survived by his children: Robert, Jr. (Kathy) Brogden, Olathe, Kansas, Rodney Brogden, Overland Park, Kansas, Sherrie (Steve) Bennett, Lawrence, Kansas, Dianna (Paul) Wright of Hutchinson, Kansas; his siblings: Silvia Drake, Franklin Brogden SR., both of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Deneice Nelson (Anvil) of Brentwood, Tennessee; Linda Brown (Claudell) of Jackson, Tennessee and Carolyn Amour of Nashville, Tennessee; seven grandchildren: Theo Hart, Toni Rhea, Breanna Bennett, Robert Brogden III, Anna Zincone, Christina Brogden and Joey Brogden; two great grandchildren: Rhylee Hudson and Logan Rhea.
Robert was a devout Catholic, husband, father, grandfather and friend to not only his entire family, but to his community who were blessed to be in his presence. Robert will be so deeply missed.