Robert Jeffers, a lifelong resident of Evansville, Indiana passed away on January 28, 2026 in
Evansville. He was born on September 4, 1947, in the same city that would remain his home
throughout his life. His parents were: John R. Jeffers and Wilma Kent Jeffers.
Robert’s educational journey began at Harrison High School and continued at the University of
Evansville. He later earned an advanced degree from Murray State University, laying the
foundation for a distinguished career in education.
He retired from the University of Southern Indiana, where he dedicated himself to teaching
speech and advertising. His passion for education extended beyond the classroom-he led
several student tours to Europe, enriching the lives of many through travel and cultural
exploration.
Robert was a devoted member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Evansville, where his
presence and participation were deeply valued.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Gayle Jeffers, and his brother Gary L. Jeffers.
Robert’s legacy as an educator and mentor will be remembered by those whose lives he
touched through his teaching and guidance. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew
him.
A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Evansville, on February 20,
2026 at 4:00 P.M. Family and friends are invited to visit at 10011 Brookline Dr. after the service
Sherrianne Standley says
Bob was such an advocate…for advancing his academic discipline, for his worthy students, for his colleagues, and for the University of Southern Indiana. Further, all he undertook, he did so with sincerity, positivity, and when appropriate, a cheerful countenance. We will miss him so much. Rest, dear Bob.
Steve and Nancy Davis says
Our condolences to Bob’s wife Gale and to his family. Bob was a great neighbor and friend. He will be missed.
M. Salee says
RIP Bob Jeffers and my sympathy and condolences to his family.
John Gottcent says
Bob’s varied careers took him from the announcer’s microphone at Ellis Park to the halls of academia. I still remember his catch phrase–“Hell-ooo”–when he said something he thought everyone should see as obvious. His combination of wit and insight made him a valuable and enjoyable colleague. May he rest in peace.
Aaron Distler says
Bob Jeffers was one of the best professors and educators I’ve ever known or had the pleasure of learning from. Talk about inspiring and fostering creativity in young adults and seeing their potential. I learned so much from him. To this day, as a small business owner, I’m fully cognizant of using things that I learned from him every day for my restaurant. I’ve never spent a dollar in advertising and think of him often when I’m doing some creative or writing copy. Bob landed me my first advertising job my senior year in college. I hadn’t even graduated yet and he got me a gig as a copywriter. During my interview Fred Kitsch said, “Bob Jeffers told me there weren’t enough superlatives in the English language to describe you.” That will forever be one of the sweetest compliments anyone could ever pay me and it carried its weight because it came from such a brilliant man. I genuinely love you, Bob Jeffers. Thank you for believing in me. I wouldn’t be where I am if not for you.
Sarah Klamer Eaton says
Mr. Jeffers will forever be a favorite core memory of my time at USI. Like so many others, I owe my gift of effective communication and creativity to him. He taught me how to express myself through visual communication. His energy was contagious and he was just so much fun. He was such an extraordinary educator and a wonderful person. Our community certainly lost a true gem.
Maria Petrovic says
Mr Jeffers was my professor in advertising at USI when I came as an exchange student from Sweden..even years from coming back he kept writing to me, wanted to know my life journey. That’s how much he cared about his students..his bourbon gift from Kentucky is still something me and my family are keeping as a cherished memory. I feel very lucky to have got to known him, he has made my stay at USI one of the best memories in my life. Condolences to the family.
Dena Clark Miles says
My condolences to all who know and love him. He made my time at USI so much more enjoyable.