Bob was born on October 24, 1933, in Polk County, Arkansas to Lockard Blackstone Cartwright and Beaulah Allen Cartwright. Bob is a graduate from Mena High School in Mena, Arkansas, and after high school Bob entered the United States Airforce and spent his time traveling and playing jazz, after his time in the service Bob went to East Texas State University where he earned a master's degree in music composition. while in college he played ETSU's honor fraternity band. Bob had a love for jazz and played in the Swing Street Jazz Connection with Dr. Mike Adkisson. Bob was the band director at Greenville High School for seventeen years and made a huge impact on many children's lives. After Bob's time at GISD he opened his own business known as McKay Music Company, which he owned and operated for many years. Bob married the love of his life Sandra Sale on November 24, 1960, in Kilgore, Texas, and he was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church.
Bob is survived by his daughters; Donna L. Cartwright Hollon and husband Bret, Sharon K. Cartwright-Steele, grandchildren; Lauren Hollon Sturdy and husband Michael, Dane Hollon, Shane Hollon, Victoria Steele-Stozhka and husband Slavik, Caroline Steele, great-grandchildren Catherine Sturdy and Cash Sturdy, Niece Melanie Ann Cartwright Coons and husband Jim, and his beloved fur baby Max.
Bob is preceded in death by his wife in 2023, his parents, and brother Donald John Cartwright.
Pallbearers will be Shane Hollon, Dane Hollon, Dr. Bob Deuell, Stanislav Stozhka and Bret Hollon.
Condolences(1)
Diane Lovell Simpson
Dallas, ME Friday, August 2, 2024 My years in band were under Mr. Cartwright. I have many fond memories of all the practices, the marching and going to football games. The Band and Flash Show every year. One year we marched in the Tyler Rose parade, unfortunately behind horses. One time at the State Fair. Can't recall him ever losing his temper. R.I.P. and keep on playing your beloved music up among the stars in heaven.