Reverend Robert Carl Shields, 88, of Princeton, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2025, at his home with his family by his side. Bob, or Preacher Bob, as he was often called, was born on July 24, 1936, in Clover Lick, in Pocahontas County. He lived there, in the same house, until graduating from Marlington High School and leaving for college. He was the eldest son of the late Carl Griffin Shields and Mary Catherine Grimes Shields. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by a brother Jackie Clay Shields, and a sister Carolyn Ann Shields.

Bob knew early what he would do in life. He was still in his teens when he felt the call from God to ministry. Because of that clear call, he planned his further education to meet his needs. After he finished high school, he enrolled in Berea College in Berea KY, then moved two years later to Wilmore, KY, where he enrolled in Asbury College, and later, in Asbury Seminary to get his Master of Divinity Degree.

His first appointment as a pastor in the United Methodist Conference came as soon as he graduated from Asbury College in 1959. That first appointment he received was with the Talcott Charge in Talcott, in Summers County. He served during all his years of ministry in 14 appointments with a total of 42 congregations.

On April 26, 1960, Bob married Betty Jean Honaker, a resident of Talcott. Five children filled their home with love, kindness, and excitement in the years that followed.

Bob is survived by his wife, Betty Jean Honaker Shields, four sons, Robert Todd Shields (Lori), Russell Carl Shields (Kammy), Seth Douglas Shields (Beverly), and Scott Daniel Shields, and one Daughter, Sandra Jean Grimes (Donald).). Eight grandchildren also left to cherish many happy memories, Samantha, Elijah, Emily (Adam), Jonathan, Sarah (Andrew), Austin, Dustin & Erika. One brother Thomas Randall Shields (Judy). Along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Preacher Bob will be held 1:00 P.M. Thursday, June 5, 2025, in the Chapel of the Memorial Funeral Directory on the Athens Road in Princeton with Pastor Marva Smearman officiating. Burial will follow in Restwood Memorial Park in Hinton. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday from 11:00 A. M. until the service hour.  The family will be serving as pallbearers.  Online condolences may be shared with the family via www.memorialfd.com. The Shields family is being served by the Memorial Funeral Directory and Cremation Center on the Athens Road in Princeton.