The Delta State University flag will fly at half-staff today through Friday, June 2, 2023, in memory of former police officer Bro. Robert Haney. Haney passed away on May 28, 2023. He was 76.
A visitation honoring Bro. Haney will be held Thursday, June 1 from 12-2:00 p.m. at the Ruleville Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2 p.m. in the Ruleville Baptist Church with graveside services proceeding in the Interstate Baptist Church Cemetery.
Robert was born on July 26, 1946, in Quitman, MS to William Robert and Annie Mae Haney. He was the next to the youngest of 10 children.
Robert graduated from Meridian High School and later served in the Army for some time before returning home to pursue his calling as a pastor. Through his work as a pastor, Robert positively impacted numerous lives in the community. He was dedicated to serving others and is fondly remembered for helping those in need. Friends and family recall Robert’s love for preaching and kindness toward everyone he met. He touched so many lives during his time here on Earth that it’s difficult to count them all. Through countless visits to hospitals and people’s homes or offering some kindness that no one else would have thought of doing – Brother Haney was always there to support others in any way possible.While in the ministry, he served faithfully at 3 churches as their pastor: Southside Baptist Church, Benoit, Interstate Baptist Church, Shaw, and Ruleville Baptist Church, Ruleville. He also was the interim pastor at many delta churches during his retirement before relocating at Ruleville Baptist. Robert married Judy Tribble on March 10, 1972. They were married for 51 years and served the Lord faithfully together. They were blessed with two children — Karen Haney (fiance-Trey) and Thomas Haney (Holly). While he loved his children with the love of Jesus, the lights of his life were his grandchildren Will Haney, Lexie Bowen, Ryan Thomas Haney, Adam Carsen Haney, and Tyler Jase Haney.He was preceded in death by his parents and 7 siblings: William H. Haney, Laurine Cassnetti, Vermell Young, Lillie Ruth Haney, Grace Turner, Gene Haney, and Gloria Raleigh. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law and several brother-in-laws.Robert is survived by his wife, his children, and grandchildren. Also, he was survived by his sister Yvonne Ausbuger (David) and brother Lawrence Haney (Diane), Brother-in-law David Tribble (Paula), and many close nieces and nephews.
Robert will be missed dearly by all who knew him but especially by those closest to him — his family. His kind heart touched everyone he came across, leaving behind an indelible mark on the world.
Memorials may be made to Ruleville Baptist Church or Gideon’s International.
