Mr. Robert Cody Barksdale, Sr., age 98 of Starke, passed away peacefully at his home, Thursday, December 18, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on September 26, 1927, in Tampa, Florida to the late Cody and Virgie (Thomas) Barksdale.

After graduating from Bradford High School, Robert attended Massey Business College in Jacksonville. He then joined his parents in their family clothing business, Barksdale's Department Store. In 1962, Mr. Barksdale switched to a different career path when he and his wife, Barbara, purchased the Florida Theatre in Starke. Mr. and Mrs. Barksdale actively participated in all aspects of running a movie theater, from selling tickets and candy, to cleaning the theater, to projecting the movies, to making trips to haul concession supplies and film. Barksdale Theatres, Inc. eventually grew to 6 indoor and 2 drive-in theaters in several southeastern states.

Robert served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, stationed at Fort McHenry in Maryland. Mr. Barksdale was a proud Mason for 75 years and served as past Master of Bradford Lodge #35.

The Barksdales were of the Baptist faith, being members of First Baptist Church in Starke before moving to Humboldt, Tennessee and joining The Church at Sugar Creek (formerly First Baptist Church of Humboldt).

Mr. Barksdale greatly enjoyed getting together with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, treating them twice yearly to family gatherings at a variety of locations in the southeast. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife in their motor home to many places in the United States and were often accompanied by others.

Left behind to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 78 years, Barbara (Horne) Barksdale, and their children, Bobbie Sue (James) O'Brian, Robert "Robby" Barksdale, Jr., and Vicki Sparks. He was lovingly called "Granddad" by his 4 grandsons, Cody, Benjamin, Matthew, and Justin, and by his 8 great grandchildren, James, Ellie, Lily, McKenna, Emmie, Evie, Monroe, and Maverick, all of whom he loved dearly.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 620 E. Nona St., Starke, FL 32091. (904)964-6200 Jonesgallagherfh.com