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Linn County News

 

 

Published April 29, 2020

 

Robert Franklin Secrest, 22, died on Thursday, April 23, 2020, at Danbury Hospital after complications related to cerebral palsy.  

Robert was born on March 19, 1998, in Lexington, S.C., to parents Robert L. Secrest and Deborah J. (Bilodeau) Secrest.   Affectionately known as “Little Robert,” he resided in several states throughout his lifetime including South Carolina, Illinois, Michigan, California, and most recently Connecticut.

Although Robert had several challenges stacked against him throughout his life due to cerebral palsy and congenital hydrocephalus, he was an extraordinary young man. He was more well traveled at 9 months old than most adults! Although he was unable to communicate verbally, he was an expert communicator in every other way! As he grew into his teenage years, Robert would speak volumes with a hearty giggle, an eye roll, or a good yank of his sister Elizabeth’s hair. As a teenager, Robert underwent several hip surgeries followed by extensive physical therapy. After many months of therapy, he walked for the first time, with a little enticing by his favorite toys -Elmo and Slinky. 

Throughout his life, Robert continued to defy the odds. His favorite vacation spot was Disney. A daredevil at heart, Robert’s favorite amusement park ride was Tower of Terror. He also had a special bond with animals of all kinds. He had the opportunity to swim with dolphins and even sharks; he held a lion cub, baby kangaroo, and an alligator. Birds and butterflies would flock to him. Robert was also a NASCAR enthusiast, especially a fan of Dale Jr., #88, and Jimmie Johnson, #48. Robert loved riding in anything fast with a loud V8 engine roaring. He was even a member of the Pratt Miller Corvette Race Team.

In addition to his parents, Robert is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Secrest, also of Newtown. He leaves behind several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was also the grandson of the late Stephen G. Bilodeau, Madeline Bilodeau, Robert J. Secrest, and Louetta G. (Cox) Secrest.

Memorial contributions may be made in Robert’s name to: Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Foundation. Please visit https://secure3.convio.net/cmf/site/SPageServer?pagename=donate_main

To place online condolences or light a memorial candle, please visit www.cornellmemorial.com.

 

OBITUARIES

Mary Alice Beth ~ 06-25-1934 to 02-03-2025

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Linn County News Published February 12, 2025   Mary Alice Beth, age 90, Blue Mound, Kan., passed away Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. She was born on June 25, 1934, in Blue Mound, the daughter of Theodore and Jessie Rosier Russell. She graduated from Blue Mound High School.... [More]

Kenneth Delmer McGee ~ 07-02-1928 to 01-30-2025

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Linn County News Published February 5, 2025   Kenneth Delmer McGee, age 96, of Centerville, Kan., passed away on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, in Garnett, Kan. He was born the son of Delmer Clinton and Nellie (Hibbs) McGee on July 2, 1928, in Centerville, Kan. He graduated... [More]

Gloria Jean Long ~ 08-13-1947 to 01-10-2025

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Linn County News Published February 5, 2025   Gloria Jean Long, age 77, La Cygne, Kan., passed away Friday, Jan. 10, 2025. She was born on Aug. 13, 1947, in Omaha, Neb., the daughter of Melvin and Maxine Hanthorne Camden. She graduated from Drexel High School. Gloria... [More]

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SPORTS

Jayhawk girls’ basketball defeats Pleasanton and falls to Southeast and St. Paul

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OBITUARIES POLICY

• May be mailed, e-mailed, faxed or hand delivered.
• Must be received by 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning in order to appear in that week's edition.
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• Cost: $40 for 300 words or less. Each additional word over 300, 10¢. Photograph $5.
Call Barbara at 913-352-6235 or e-mail linncountynewsreporter@gmail.com

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