Robert Abbott Paugh Jr.

Robert Abbott Paugh Jr. passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 90.

Robert lived a full and adventurous life, calling many places home throughout the years. His military career and adventurous spirit took him across the country and around the world, creating a lifetime of experiences, stories, and memories along the way.

He proudly served his country for more than 21 years of active military service, beginning his career in the United States Marine Corps in 1953 before continuing his service in the United States Navy. His military career took him around the world twice and even to the North Pole. His Navy career included extensive submarine service aboard the USS Patrick Henry (SSBN-599) as a member of the Gold Crew, where he completed three patrols. After more than two decades of service to his country, Robert concluded his active-duty career in 1974 and transferred to the Fleet Reserve.

Robert was married to the love of his life, Matilda Paugh, for 55 years until her passing on August 29, 2013. Together, they built a life and family that meant everything to them and created memories that would span generations.

Robert was the father of Teresa Cote (deceased), Bobby Paugh II, Carol Paugh, and Ellen Paugh (deceased). He was grandfather to Kristin Cote; Bobby Paugh III and his wife, Sophia; Kerry Jon Phillips; Jason Phillips; Marlee Jeffrey and her husband, Daniel A. Jeffrey; and Hunter Paugh. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Jaylin Rodriguez, Sasha Sahadath, Kaje Phillips, Emma Jeffrey, Jaxon Phillips, and Daniel R. Jeffrey.

Following his military career, Robert carried his adventurous and entrepreneurial spirit into the next chapter of his life. He was a business owner and entrepreneur for many years, always coming up with a new idea and willing to take a chance on it. Among his ventures were The West Key Lounge in Victoria, Texas, and Robert A’s Tacos. His creativity, determination, and constant stream of new ideas were simply part of who he was.

Robert was also an incredible cook, a talent that followed him throughout his life. Whether cooking professionally, for one of his businesses, or simply for the people he loved, food was something he knew well and took pride in. Earlier in life, he also enjoyed golfing and spending time at the VFW.

Perhaps one of Robert’s greatest gifts was his ability to tell a story. After a life filled with travel, military service, business ventures, family, and more than a few adventures, he certainly never ran out of material. He could tell a story in a way that drew people in, often with his trademark humor and sarcasm, and those stories became part of the memories his family will treasure most.

Robert will be remembered as funny, sarcastic, stubborn, clever, a wonderful storyteller, and a great cook. He had a personality all his own and a way of leaving an impression on the people around him. His family will carry with them countless stories, memories, recipes, and laughs that will continue to be shared for generations.

Above all, Robert’s family was an important part of his life. He was a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and the impact he had on those closest to him cannot be measured simply by the years he lived. His presence helped shape the lives of the generations that followed him, and his memory will remain a part of their lives for years to come.

In accordance with his wishes, Robert’s ashes will be reunited with those of his beloved wife, Matilda. Together, they will be spread into the ocean, a fitting final journey for a man who spent so much of his life traveling the world and at sea.