Memorials are collected by the funeral home on behalf of the family.
Robert Paul Brunet

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.

Robert Paul Brunet, a devoted husband and loving father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on July 29, 1946, in Larose, Louisiana, Robert lived a life marked by his love for his family and for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
He graduated in 1964 from Larose Cut Off High School, where his talent on the football field earned him a scholarship to Louisiana Tech University. He met the love of his life, Lydia Ann Tidwell, while attending Louisiana Tech, and the two married on June 11, 1966. At LA Tech, Robert excelled on the football field and earned honors such as All Gulf Conference Team and the All Century Team. Robert graduated from Louisiana Tech in 1968 with a degree in education.
Robert was drafted by the Washington Redskins, where he played for 10 seasons, including playing in Super Bowl VII. Known for his speed, grit, and determination, Robert became one of the top-ranked special teams players in the league during his time. His excellence was honored when he was inducted into the Louisiana Tech Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015 and the Bayou Region Hall of Fame in 2022.
Beyond football, Robert’s greatest joy was his family. He shared 59 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Lydia. Together they raised two daughters, Kristi Brunet Shuckrow (married to Gordon Shuckrow) and Nicole Brunet Cureton (married to Robert Cureton), who are guided daily by the values they instilled in them- love of God, integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic.
After retiring from professional football, Robert and Lydia began a new chapter in Baton Rouge. Together, along with Robert’s cousin Ted Plaisance and wife Kathy, they started a seafood delivery business and market, Cajun Seafood. What began as a small family venture soon grew into a beloved local restaurant, The Galley. Years later, Robert partnered with his brother Billy to expand the business further, renaming it Brunet’s Cajun Restaurant. For 38 years, the restaurant served authentic Cajun seafood dishes, crafted from family recipes passed down through generations. More than just a place to eat, Brunet’s became a hub for culture and connection—where Robert and Lydia taught Cajun dance lessons, and Robert taught Cajun French classes, helping to preserve and share the rich traditions of his South Louisiana roots. Robert and Lydia cherished the many friendships they made while in business at the restaurant- friendships which are still strong today.

He was a loving, proud, and amazingly fun Poppa to Alli Nicole Wesley (married to Damian Wesley), Robert Paul Cureton, and Emily Grace Brunet Shuckrow. They will forever carry his legacy in their hearts- in the joy they share, the lives they lead, the memories they cherish, and the stories they’ll always tell of their incredible Poppa.
Robert was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting with friends and fishing at his camp in Fourchon. He was a disciplined athlete even after professional football, and he spent a great deal of time working out, riding his bike, and golfing. He was never one to stay still for very long, and he was constantly working on projects, including taking great care of his home and property. He loved spending time with his family at his condo in Orange Beach, sharing laughs, enjoying great meals, playing games on the beach, and making memories. He was a life-long learner, and could often be found reading and studying newspapers, biographies, and novels. Above all, Robert loved the Lord with all his heart. His faith defined him. He was passionate about reading God’s Word and sharing how Jesus had saved him and transformed his life. Robert believed deeply in leading others to Christ and was a strong voice for life, serving faithfully with Caring to Love Ministries and their annual golf tournament to advocate for unborn babies and to support their mothers choosing life. He never missed an opportunity to share the Gospel and tell others about the hope and redemption he found in Jesus Christ.

In addition to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, Robert is also survived by his sister, Mary Abbondanza (Ralph). He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Daisy Belle Brunet, and his brother, Billy Brunet (Pepper). He was also preceded in death by his dear friends and mentors, John and Mary Rabb. His family, friends, and countless others will remember him as a dedicated servant of the Lord, and a man of great wisdom, character, and integrity.
Services will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Victory Harvest Church on North Flannery Road in Baton Rouge. Visitation will take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service and a time of fellowship at the church. Burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends of Robert Paul Brunet who prefer to provide a memorial contribution may do so. The family will use these to honor Robert Paul Brunets life and memory. Please continue to keep the family in your thoughts throughout this challenging time.