Robert O. Hedden

The loved and respected Robert O. Hedden, of Elizabeth, Indiana, passed away on April 22nd, 2025. He was the first born to Ellis and Catherine (Prell) Hedden on October 20th, 1935. He graduated from Elizabeth High School and briefly served in the Indiana National Guard. On September 18, 1959, Robert married the love of his life, Caroline (Cunningham) and had three adoring children.

Hardworking from the time he was a teen, Robert was employed by Shepherd and Rogers Construction, Willet Manufacturing, and Diesel Injection Service. He then enjoyed many years serving alongside peers at the Kentucky Ford Truck Plant where he retired in 2000. After retirement, Robert continued to work on his farm, raising cattle, and harvesting crops.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerry Hedden; and sister, Linda Morgan. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Caroline; his children, Julie (John) Keeton, Robert Craig (Theresa) Hedden, and Andrea (Scott) Baerenklau. Robert loved his grandchildren, John, Robert (Lydia), and Jacob (Bethany) Keeton; Wesley (Katie) Hedden, Katia (David) Harshfield, and William Ashton Hedden; Derek and Ada Caroline Baerenklau; and his great-grandchildren, Anthony, Abigail, Wyatt, Cainan, Ashton, Isabella, Oaklynn, Mason, and Emerie. He is also survived by his brother, Lavon (Julie) Hedden; brother-in-law, Les Morgan; sister-in-law, Judy Hedden; and many nieces and nephews.

Robert faithfully served his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as a member of Moores Chapel/Rosewood Community Church, and later in life attended Smith Campground, Lighthouse, Depauw, and Grace Tabernacle. He also loved serving his community through his work with the Elizabeth Lion’s Club, the South Harrison Community Development Corporation, and by contributing his prize winning chili to countless fundraisers and community events. Wherever there was a need to help, Robert would always lend his hands and heart. He showed God’s love to his family and community, working hard in everything he did throughout his life. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” - Colossians 3:23

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany, Indiana). Visitation will continue on Wednesday at the funeral home from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. His Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, at the funeral home with burial to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Elizabeth, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Robert's memory can be made to World Gospel Mission for Jonathan and Lisa Mayo (P.O. Box 948 Marion, IN 46952-0948).

Please consider sharing a memory or Robert or leaving a special message for his family by completing the online Guestbook below.