Pastor Robert E. Baxter

Robert Edgar Baxter, lovingly known as Pastor Bob, was born on August 8, 1931, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Edgar and Margaret Baxter. On January 3, 1956, he married his beloved Marylu Goodmanson. Together, they shared 69 wonderful years, raising three children who faithfully serve the same Christ Pastor Bob joyfully proclaimed throughout his life.

As a young boy, Bobby was an accomplished musician. He was the youngest member of the Sioux City Symphony, skillfully playing the oboe, and he delighted many as an accomplished pianist and composer. In the 1950s, he earned the South Dakota state championship in Table Tennis. The eldest of three siblings, Bobby brought laughter and cheer to his sisters, Jerri and Margie, who fondly remember his playful spirit and mischievous pranks.

Pastor Bob attended seminary in Chicago with a heartfelt desire to be equipped for pastoral ministry, so he could share the Gospel with greater passion and clarity. For more than 60 years, he devoted himself to making Christ known, serving faithfully in Sanborn, Iowa; Redwood Falls, Minnesota; Olathe, Kansas; Roebuck, South Carolina; Dothan, Alabama; and finally, retiring at age 84 while ministering in Florala, Alabama. His dedication touched countless lives in each community.

During his years at First Presbyterian Church in Olathe, Pastor Bob also embraced international ministry exchanges, spending several months in Lismore, Australia, and later in New Plymouth, New Zealand. These experiences enriched his vision for the Church and deepened his commitment to missions, leaving a lasting impression on his heart and those he served.

Beyond his pastoral ministry, Pastor Bob was the author of Aim High! —a revision of Richard Baxter’s classic, The Saint’s Everlasting Rest. His words continue to inspire and encourage those who seek a deeper walk with Christ.

Anyone blessed to worship under Pastor Bob’s leadership will recall his invocation from Psalm 118: “This is the Day the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Every Sunday, he welcomed the congregation into God’s presence with these words. They were far more than a call to worship—they became the very essence of his life: faithful to his calling, rejoicing in every circumstance, and giving thanks always.

He loved playing games with his family, singing songs he made up, leading the “Baxter Band”, acting out Bible bedtime stories, and sharing bedtime snacks of crackers and sardines. He was a generous provider of his time and treasure to his family throughout his life and he modeled the Father’s love and kindness in all he did for them.

Pastor Bob leaves behind a loving and devoted family who carry forward his legacy of faith and service: his children Mark Baxter (Janet), Mary Warner (Kent), and Jim Baxter (Wendy); ten grandchildren: Daniel Baxter, Kathleen Ziegler, Jennifer McDonald, Matthew Warner, Marie Warner, Luke Warner, Aaron Baxter, Sarah Tompkins, Jonathan Baxter, and Mary-Lynn Lynch; and 24 great-grandchildren who brought joy to his later years. His great joy was knowing that the ministry of God’s Word would be multiplied through his future generations. Only our gracious, sovereign God knows how many lives will be influenced and brought to Christ through his descendants.

A visitation honoring Pastor Bob will be held on April 12, 2026, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 5:00 p.m. at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 13310 South Black Bob Road, Olathe, Kansas. The family looks forward to visiting with all who loved Pastor Bob and Marylu as we gather, giving thanks to God for a life marked by unwavering faithfulness to Scripture, a passionate love for the Church, and a deep devotion to his family. His legacy of ministry and love will continue to bless generations to come.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)

In lieu of flowers, memorials to honor Pastor Bob are suggested to New Hope PCA.

To share a memory of Reverend Baxter, or to leave a message for the family, visit the guestbook below.