Robert Lawrence Beckett walked through the gates of Heaven on Oct. 27, 2004. The son of the late Carlos Flete Beckett and the late Emma Phillips, and stepson to Wiley Smith Sr., he was born in Akron on Nov. 29, 1921. He lived his entire life right here. On his way to eternal peace and joy, he stopped to spend over 62 years with his high school sweetheart, Ruby Holland, whom he married on May 23, 1942. Aside from his loving wife, he leaves behind two sons, Larry (Verna) and Dale (Patty), and two daughters, Jill Talkington and Debi-Ellen Beckett. There are five granddaughters, Mich elle Coral, Lisa Bennett, Crystal Beckett, Julie Adkins, and Jennie McFarland (Troy). There are also five great-grandchildren, Ashley Adkins, Jacob Myers, Hunter and Tyler McFarland, and Matthew Coral. He also leaves a brother, Wiley Smith Jr. of Akron, and a sister, Linda Beckett Bracey in Houston, Texas. There are many, many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He also leaves behind his good buddies, Hurl Lawry and Howard Parson, and the Goodyear Aerospace Retirees Breakfast Buddies. During his time with us, he wore many faces: He joined the U.S. Air Force in January of 1943, but was honorably dis charged in July after a bout with rheumatic fever. He worked for Goodyear Tire & Rubber and drove long-distance for Motor Cargo and Consolidated Freigh tways for 11 years. He retired with 20 years service from Goodyear Aerospace, during which time he and his wife owned and operated Summit Mower Service for 31 years. He was a member of the Akron Baptist Temple for many years. He also was a member of the Mason's Adoniram Lodge 517, and the Scottish Rite. He taught us all so much: He taught us to work hard and to live wisely. He taught us to laugh, to appreciate the simple joy of watching children at play, and the peace of sitting in warm sunlight. He taught us to respect ourselves and each other. He taught us to protect our dignity, and to cherish our integrity. Most of all, he taught us all how to love. He was a good husband, Dad, Paw-Paw, and friend. His was a good life and we will miss him forever and ever. Calling hours will be Sunday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., and Monday from 12 to 1 p.m., at NEWCOMER-FARLEY FUNERAL HOME, 131 N. Canton Rd. Services on Monday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home, with Dr. Charles Billington officiating. Interment at Rose Hill Burial Park.