Robert W. “Bruce” Stuart III, age 82, my best friend, lover, confidant and companion in Christ for more than 50 years, has gone to be with our Heavenly Father and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. Drawn to a loving Father, my husband discovered God’s perfect plan for his life. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).”

Digging deeper: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23),” he uncovered just how much his rebellion and self-will had cost him. This was keeping him from a relationship with God with whom he wanted to draw near. “The wages of sin is death [spiritual separation from God] (Romans 6:23).” So, with the Spirit’s leading he sought God’s forgiveness for his sins knowing that Christ had died in his place. “God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).” By faith he received God’s grace. "By grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8,9).” And now, today, he is with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, forever!

Robert Stuart III is survived by his loving wife of 50+ years, Rilla Tongate Stuart; and her children, two daughters: Kala Mechler and Karen Klaeger; a son, Frank Atherton; granddaughters, Kaci Klaeger (Derek), Ashlee Rangel and Melissa Hail (Tyler); grandsons, William Huckabee; Daniel Atherton (Molly), Eric Mechler (Kristy), Frank Atherton II (Sarah), Shane Atherton; and brother, Tom Stuart and wife Kathryn; along with many nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren whom he loved endlessly.

Memorial services will be held 10:00 AM, Thursday, May 7, 2026 at the Fredericksburg Bible Church with Pastor Alex Garcia officiating.

Services with integrity, pride, and honor are under the direction of Kerrville Funeral Home. (830) 895-5111