Robert Richard Gant

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Robert Richard Gant, age 69, on September 17, 2024. He was born in Henderson County, Kentucky, to the late Robert McFarland and Mattie Gant, Robert lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ben and Pauline Gant Sr., his beloved sister Irene Burton and her husband David, his cherished brother Leroy Gant, his uncles James Ray, Jimmy Lee Ware, Ben Gant Jr., his special uncle John Edward Gant, his aunts Jacqueline Easley, Pearline Gant Stone, and his special aunt Deloris “Bobbie” Gant.

Robert dedicated his life to Christ at an early age while attending New Race Creek Baptist Church, where he was baptized by the late Rev. Chester Hatchett. He later joined his family at The Seventh Street Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Anthony M. Brooks Sr. Until his mother’s passing in 2015, Robert could always be found sitting next to her on the pew. He continued his Christian journey under the guidance of Rev. R.T. Hill until his health began to fail.

As the Patriarch of the Gant family, Robert leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his beloved brother Hollis Gant (Debbie), and his sisters Nicole Foreman (Joe), and Carlita “Gail” Thompson of Minnesota. Robert’s aunt Ervinia, the Matriarch of the family, also mourns his passing.

Robert’s memory is cherished by his nieces and nephews: Tresa Rucker (Myron), Edgreana Hamm (Donald), David Wiley (Darsil), Koty Gant, Jessica Gant, Megan Gant, Antonio Pendleton, and nieces and nephews from Minnesota. He is also fondly remembered by his devoted cousins and caregivers, Gloria and Tyrone Young, his favorite maternal cousin, Glen “Suga Bear” Gant, and his favorite paternal cousin, Anthony “Tony” McFarland, with whom he shared countless cherished moments. Robert also leaves behind numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and a phenomenal circle of friends.

A man of few wants “Bah Bah” a nick name given to him by close friends from 7th Street, was a great friend who would help anyone in need without expecting anything in return. He loved his apartment at 840 and was an immaculate housekeeper. He cherished the bonds and friendships of his neighbors for the past 13 years and he missed them and inquired about them each time he had to be away.

Before his health failed, Robert enjoyed riding his Schwinn around town and later reduced his route to the 7th Street and North End. He enjoyed spending time with his childhood best friends, Eugene Hatchett and Tyrone Young Sr., with whom he shared a love of classic R&B. They often drove around, singing along to their favorite songs, such as Easy by The Commodores, Sarah Smile by Hall & Oates, and If You Think You’re Lonely Now by Bobby Womack. Robert also had a love for gospel music, with You Know My Name by Tasha Cobbs Leonard being one of his favorites.

Despite his declining health, “Bah Bah” found peace in quiet rides to the Ohio River, a place he visited weekly. His kind heart, infectious smile, and generous spirit will be missed by all who knew him. Robert was a devoted grandson, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, and friend—someone who truly served others with his whole heart.

Rest in Peace, Robert “Bah Bah”,. Your light continues to shine in the hearts of those who loved you. We will miss you until we meet again on the other side.

A visitation will be held Saturday, Sept. 28th from 9 to 11 am with funeral to follow at 11 am all at Seventh Street Missionary Baptist Church in Henderson, KY. Bural at Fernwood.