Robert Jerome "Tinka" Piggee
- rowell-parish
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 17
1950 ~ 2025

Date of Death: April 30, 2025
In profound sadness, the staff of Veasley Funeral Home & Cremations, Inc. want to express our sincere condolences to the Piggee Family. Robert's earthly temple is now resting in the care of Rowell-Parish Mortuary. Revelations 21:4 says, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death; nor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away." Be assured that in the days ahead you will surely gain strength from the memories of Robert Jerome "Tinka" Piggee.
Sincerely,
Derrick Veasley ~ Director
Henry Veasley ~ Director
Pastor E.C. Maltbia ~ Chaplain
Robert Jerome (Tinka) Piggee, 74, passed away on April 30, 2025, at his home in Des Moines, IA. Born on October 3, 1950, to Shelton Sr. and Elnora Vick Piggee in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Robert lived a life full of service, music, and companionship.
Robert attended school in Pocola, Oklahoma and graduated from high school in 1969. In July 1973, he entered the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably until his discharge in October 1983; after two tours of duty at Camp LeJeune.
Following his military service, Robert worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail handler and clerk. His passion for singing and karaoke led him to volunteer at fundraisers, and, during his retirement, he found great joy in entertaining residents at nursing homes, the VA Center, and spending time with the disabled community as a visiting companion. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Shelton and Elnora Vick Piggee; his companion, Trudy Scott; all his siblings, Whonita Dixon, Lhonita Dewhart Brewer, Shelton Piggee Jr., Scottie Piggee, Robert Thomas, and infant sister Shirley Patricia; and grandparents Sarah Fulsom Degraftenreed and Leslie Vick.
He is survived by his nieces, Stephanie Dixon, Pilar Piggee, and Kris Piggee; nephews, Frank Dewhart, Sostane Brewer, Terrell Brewer, and Sean Thomas; sisters-in-law, Nancy Piggee and Shirley Thomas; his caregiver, Brandy Ramos and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, friends, and other relatives.
Robert's life touched many, and he will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the joy he brought to others. May he rest in peace.
Committal Service will be held Friday June 20, 2025; 11:00am National Cemetery 522 Garland Ave., Fort Smith, AR 72901.
Condolences to the family. Tinka was a long time friend.form years back RIP.