Robert Earl Vannatta

Robert Earl Vannatta, born on November 24, 1959, in Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on March 12, 2026. Deeply rooted in family, he cherished a life defined by his profound love for his grandchildren and his unwavering passion for Kentucky basketball.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jody Vannatta, with whom he shared 50 years of marriage; his children, James (Jennifer) Polk and Lisa (Tommy) Lucas; his son-in-law, Robert Tyrrell; his mother, Juanita Vannatta; his siblings, James Vannatta, Linda Goodman, Bill Vannatta, Tom (Donna) Vannatta, and Mary (Robert) LaFever; and his brother-in-law, Dale Rhoades. He found his greatest joy in his seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who illuminated his later years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Julie Tyrrell; his father, James Vannatta; and his sister, Barbara Rhoades.