Judge Robert A. “Bob” Tolson, Jr.

Judge Robert A. "Bob" Tolson, Jr., age 81, passed away on July 16, 2025, at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. Born on January 7, 1944, in Monticello, Arkansas, he lived a life marked by dedication to justice, public service, and family. Judge Tolson was a current resident of Cleveland County and an active member of Star City First United Methodist Church.

Bob spent his early years in Rison, Arkansas, where he attended elementary and middle school before moving with his family to Houston, Texas. There he graduated from Jefferson Davis High School and went on to pursue higher education at the University of Houston. He earned his bachelor's degree in 1967 and completed his law degree just a year later in 1968—an achievement that launched a distinguished legal career.

After graduating from law school, Bob moved to Pine Bluff, Arkansas where he began his professional journey. His commitment to public service quickly became evident when he took on the role of City Attorney in the 1970s. He served in this capacity for close to two decades with unwavering integrity and dedication.

Fulfilling a long-held aspiration, Bob was appointed to the position of Municipal Judge of Pine Bluff/Jefferson County, which later became the elected position of District Judge. In this role, he brought fairness and wisdom to the bench until his retirement after twelve years in the position. His tenure as judge was marked by a deep respect for the law and an enduring belief in justice—principles that guided him throughout his life.

Outside the courtroom, Bob found joy, camaraderie and developed many friendships through his involvement in co-ed and men’s softball for many years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the

Sahara Shriners, and various units within the Shriners’ organization for over 50 years. Judge Tolson was a member of the Arkansas Bar Association, Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association and served for many years on the Arkansas Fair Board and the Rison Farm Bureau Board of Directors. He also had a lifelong love for horse racing and cattle ranching—pursuits that reflected both his adventurous spirit and deep roots in Arkansas tradition. A devoted fan of classic western movies where justice always prevailed, Bob appreciated stories that mirrored his own values of fairness and perseverance.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife Glenda Baker Tolson of 48 years; children Amy Tolson Raines (Tim), Missy Tolson Clements (Bill), Kristi Tolson Burrow (Matt), and Stryker Tolson; grandchildren Kyle Raines, Shannon Raines, Ashley Evans, Lauren Clements, and Blaine Thomas; and brother Roy E. Tolson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert A. Tolson, Sr. and Carrie Walton Tolson; brother Randy D. Tolson; and grandchildren Ryan Raines, and Ava Clements.

Judge Robert A. "Bob" Tolson Jr.'s legacy lives on through those who knew him—as a dedicated public servant, a loving family man, and someone who believed deeply in doing what was right. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing. A Visitation will be held on July 22, 2025, at 09:30 a.m. at Buie Funeral Home, 302 Main Street, Rison, AR, followed by funeral services at 10:00 a.m. and interment at 11:00 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, Rison, AR.Memorials may be made to Arkansas Race Track Chaplaincy (ARTC), Oaklawn, Hot Springs, AR, or Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Shreveport, LA