Robert Ray Pulliam, 73, a native of Dewar and lifelong resident of Prairieville, La., passed away on December 29, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Robert was born in Dewar, on August 14, 1950, to James and Guandina Pulliam.
Upon graduating from Dewar High School in 1968, he attended East Central State College in Ada. Robert then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, 1st Marine Headquarters Division, out of Camp Pendleton, where he served as a corporal at headquarters during the Vietnam Era. Robert was one day shy of being shipped to Vietnam when instead he was re-assigned to the General’s headquarters. He was trained in bulk fuel and would have been on the front lines in Vietnam. Robert always thought there must have been an angel looking out for him that day. That angel knew there were better things ahead for him in Louisiana.
After serving his time with the Marines, Robert returned to Ada and subsequently found his way to Baton Rouge, Louisiana due to a job opportunity in the piping industry with his best friend, Darryl Arthurs. Robert was well known in the industry as ‘the valve expert’ and spent more than 50 years between Tyler Dawson, McJunkin Corporation and finally retiring from Piping and Equipment after his illness. Robert knew just about every valve made and could recite descriptions and tag numbers without hesitation.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Twana Michelli Pulliam; his daughters Margueritte Hutchinson (Brett) of Watson, La., Heather Fisette (Doug) of Lake Charles, Louisiana, and son Trey Wolf (Brandi) of Morgan City, La. Robert had eight grandchildren: Hunter, Emma, James, Cami, Isabelle, Zoey, Abigail, and Ellie all of whom he loved very much and was known to them as “Pops.” He is also survived by his brother Larry Pulliam (Carol) of Springer; and his sister Debby Brice (Skip) of Keifer; as well as numerous nieces and nephews that he was so proud of. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, James and Guandina Pulliam, and grandson, Hunter.
For those who knew him, Robert was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed August 14, 1950 – December 29, 2023
sharing his love of nature and hunting with friends and family. Some of his most treasured moments were those where he was able to witness “first deer” events with his son, Trey, his nephew Sam, and his friend David. Robert enjoyed watching his beloved LSU Tigers and Saints and shared that passion with his wife. During his illness, Robert was a true champ and never gave up fighting. He was able to check off a few items on his bucket list like beautiful trips to Montana and New Mexico.
The family would like to offer its sincere thanks to the staff at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center and Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute, especially Dr. Charles Wood, Dr. Vince Cataldo, Dustin Denicola, PA; and Amanda Sacarro, NP and the hospices nurses at Audubon Hospice, especially Katie Davis. They were vital in Robert’s ongoing battle and fight to the end.
There are not enough words of thanks to all the family, friends, and neighbors who always checked in to help with whatever was needed. You know who you are, and the family is eternally grateful.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Service at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge on Friday, January 5, 2023, at 11 a.m. The memorial visitation will be held at the funeral home beginning at 9 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Serenity Oaks Cemetery in Prairieville, followed by a celebration of life at his home. Honorary pallbearers are his nieces and nephews: Karl Pulliam, Ashley Rutledge, Andrea Brice, Amanda DeLana, Sam Barton, Kate Barton and Anne Barton.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Robert Ray Pulliam may be made to Cara’s House – a shelter for animals, or the charity of your choice.
Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge. com.
