Robert “Bob” Ely passed away May 21, 2018 at his home in Galveston with the love of his family surrounding him. He was born September 27, 1942, in Pasadena, Texas, and lived and worked in Houston until 2013, when he retired to Galveston, Texas.
Bob was a graduate of Sam Houston State University with a degree in music. He began his career as a teacher of choir and music in high schools in Houston and New York City before working for Phonoscope for 23 years as director of human resources and payroll.
Music, traveling, and University of Texas athletics, especially football, were his passions. He was a long-time member of the Longhorn Foundation and traveled frequently to Austin to see his football team and tailgate with his UT football friends. His love for music, especially choir and organ, were at the forefront of his life. He was a member of Moody Methodist Church in Galveston where he loved the music of organist and friend, Dr. Joanna Elliott Whitsett.
His parents, Allen and Fern Ely of Pasadena, TX, preceded Bob in death. He leaves behind brother Allen Ely and wife Neha of Galveston, TX; niece Dana Ely Horner of San Francisco, CA; nephews Rodney Ely and wife Yuka of Phoenix, AZ; Ben and Armand Ely of Galveston, TX; and beloved great-nephews, great-niece, and cousins. He also leaves life-long friends whom were part of his family: Tony Roy, Gaylon Denney, Dr. John Nottingham, Jay Stevens, Faye Cormier and JoAnn Miller, Martha and Sydni Troxell, Brian Mullis and Andres Mireles, Lisette St. Mard and Angie Vulliet, Bonnie and David Pickartz, Tracey Garrett, Rhonda Cook, Bianca Burks and Jean Logan, and many dear friends from Phonoscope and PS Lightwave.
A memorial service celebrating Bob’s life will be June 25, 2018, 11:00 a.m., at Moody Methodist Church in Galveston, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Longhorn Foundation or animal rescue charity of your choice.
Bob’s friends and family would like to thank A-MED Healthcare Group hospice nurses and staff for their care and kindness.
“Hook ‘Em Horns, Baby!”