Robert Thomas McFarland, 54, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026, in Poplar Bluff.

He was born on December 3, 1971, to Thomas Edward McFarland and Deanna Kay Beckham.

Robert enjoyed playing video games, watching movies, drawing, and cooking. He also spent time volunteering at the Rescue Mission. Robert loved his nieces and nephews and had a special place in his heart for his cat, Wade, whom he named after Deadpool. He was especially proud that he had trained Wade to walk on a leash.

Robert was proud of the time he served in the United States Navy, a chapter of his life he carried with him throughout the years.

Robert is survived by his stepfather, Gary Beckham; one sister, Anita (James) Freeman; one brother, Jesse Gurlen; five nieces and nephews, Logan Freeman, Daniel Faughn, Zoë Freeman, Addison Gurlen, and Jessie Gurlen; and one great-nephew, Kaidan Freeman. He also leaves behind a host of family members and friends who will remember him and cherish the memories they shared with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas McFarland and Deanna Beckham; his stepfather, James (Bud) Gurlen, one brother, Joshua Gurlen; one sister, Kelly Faughn; and one nephew, Kayson Gurlen.

Celebration of life will be held with full Military Honors at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at 17357 Stars and Stripes Way, Bloomfield, Missouri, with Pastor Greg Kirk officiating. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.

Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis Facebook page.