Robert Michael Holbert's Obituary
Robert Michael Holbert, of Longview, Texas, passed away on May 16, 2024. Mike was preceded in death by his father Robert Charles Holbert, and mother Pearl Shaw Holbert. He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years Kathi Graff Holbert; children Jennifer and Chad Price; and Ellyn and Ryan Cook. His legacy continues with his grandchildren Caroline and Jack Price; and Heath and William Cook. He is survived by his sister Betsy Holbert Tidwell.
Mike was born on January 27 1950, in Kilgore, Texas. After Mike graduated from Longview High school in 1968 and the University of Texas in Austin in 1973, he returned to Longview and entered the Holbert/Morgan family business and was a co-owner and pharmacist in Louis Morgan Pharmacy where he served his customers for over 50 years.
A leadership and service ethic evidenced itself early in his life as he earned his Eagle Scout badge in his early teens. He was a faithful volunteer and served many roles in his community where his leadership ethic shown through as he often times ended his roles in local leadership as President or Chairman of the entity. He served as President of Pinecrest County Club, Chairman the board of Crisman School for Children With Learning Disabilities and as the President of Longfellows. Mike was honored to serve on the Board of Directors of Texas Bank and Trust as well.
Having been raised in a pharmacy family, when Mike became co-owner and pharmacist at Louis Morgan Pharmacy, he brought “old school” values as well as current business practices. He and his wife Kathi transformed Louis Morgan into a destination gift shop that was known for its wide array of every occasion gift items. While there in the back, with some customers calling him Doctor Mike, the pharmacist provided comforting advice and information providing if not a second opinion, a comforting explanation as to what a doctor might have meant and just how a medication was to work. Whether it was Doc, Mike or Mister Holbert, the man in the back was unfailingly loyal to customer and personal friend as well and a servant to any who might appear at his door.
Mike’s life story is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on their community. His dedication to his family, his unwavering commitment to his customers at Louis Morgan, and his ability to forge lasting relationships with every person he met, are the hallmarks of a life well-lived. Mike's legacy is not just in the successful business he ran or the family he raised, but also in the countless lives he touched with his generosity and spirit.
The love he had for his grandchildren was evident in every aspect of his life. From the long drives to Dallas to care for his grandchildren, to the pride he took in displaying their photos and sharing their achievements, Mike's actions spoke volumes of his devotion. His decision to close the store for Heath's first birthday is a poignant reminder of the priorities he held dear – family always came first.
Mike's ability to connect with people extended beyond his immediate circle. He had the rare gift of making everyone feel like they mattered, turning strangers into friends with ease. His presence at a restaurant was often marked by his absence at the table, as he preferred to engage in conversations with new acquaintances, leaving a lasting impression on all he encountered.
In remembering Mike, we are reminded of the values that make a community strong: love, dedication, and the bonds we form with one another. His story inspires us to cherish our relationships, to contribute positively to our communities, and to live a life that, when reflected upon, is full of meaningful connections and heartfelt moments. Mike's memory will continue to live on, not only in Longview but in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A Memorial Service for Mike will be held Monday, May 20th, 2:00pm at First United Methodist Church in Longview. Memorials may be made to the charities of your choice.
Cremation arrangements are under the care of Rader Funeral Home in Longview.
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