Robert Martin Tennill

Robert Martin Tennill

January 3, 1949 – February 16, 2026

Robert Martin Tennill, 77, passed away on February 16, 2026. Born on January 3, 1949, in Mathis, Texas, Robert was the beloved son of Don Noble Tennill and Claudia Smith Tennill.

Robert grew up in Mathis and graduated from Mathis High School in 1967. He continued his education at A&I Kingsville, laying the foundation for a long and dedicated career. He devoted 37 years to Flint Hills before retiring. Never one to slow down, Robert continued working for another 10 years in Canada, Wyoming, and Mississippi, where he built lasting friendships and left a strong impression on everyone he met.

Robert loved the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, gardening or looking for arrow heads. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and rarely missed a game. He poured his heart into coaching his sons and their friends in pee wee football and Oil Belt baseball, leaving a lasting influence on many young lives. But most of all, Robert loved watching his grandkids play sports. The kids could always count on Papa being there to cheer them on! He believed in hard work, loyalty, and showing up for the people you love.

On December 11th, 1970, he married the love of his life, Cindy Tennill. Their love story began in middle school and spanned 55 beautiful years of marriage — a testament to devotion, partnership, and deep friendship.

Robert was a proud and loving father to Wade/Jennifer Tennill, Lance Tennill of Corpus Christi and Jill/Mike Metzker of Houston. He is also survived by his brother Don/Linda Tennill of Nacogdoches, Texas. His greatest joy, however, was being “Papa” to his grandchildren — Hailey, Parker, Raegan, Nicholas, John Robert, Ava, Payton and Sophia — who were truly the apple of his eye. Nothing brought him more happiness than cheering them on, sharing stories, and spending time together.

Robert will be remembered for his steady presence, his strong work ethic, his love of family, and the many friendships he formed throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents Don and Claudia Tennill, his sister Cathy Curlee and a brother Wesley Tennill.

Robert has been a member of Annaville Baptist Church since 1973 when they moved to Calallen.

Visitation for family will be at Annaville Baptist Church at 10:00 a.m., February 25th followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided immediately following the service.

He will be greatly missed and forever loved.