Robert Sylvester Appling, Sr., 59, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at UF Health Shands Hospital, Gainesville.  A native and lifelong resident of Palatka, he was the son of Artis Appling, Sr., and Joyce A. (Suggs) Appling, born on Tuesday, August 29, 1961.  He was educated in the Putnam County School District and a Class of 1979 Palatka High School graduate.  Following graduation, he enlisted into the United States Army on Tuesday, June 26, 1979 and graciously served and earned an honorable discharge on Friday, December 14, 1984.  For many years, Robert was a driver for the former Anderson Non-Emergency Medical Transportation company.  Robert loved his family beyond measure and his hobbies included studying from his Holy Bible, cooking seafood boils, fishing, playing with his grandkids, and "trash talking."  In addition to his father , he was preceded in eternal rest by his paternal grandparents , Willie and Annie Mae Appling; maternal grandparents, Robert and Verla Mae Gaymon; brother , Anthony Appling; sister , Priscilla Jones; grandson, Xavier Appling.

He leaves to cherish his memories: devoted mother , Joyce Appling; 7 children , Tikesha Hines, Robert (Sharon) Appling, Jr., Ryian (Jontae) Appling, Ramiya (Kevin) Freeman, Rica Appling, Renada (Larry) Black, and Rashad Appling; stepson, Antoine Broadnax; 2 4 grandchildren , Takiya, Michael, Robert III, Robryona, Ramone, Ricardo, Re'Asia, Reyona, Davion, Da'Jonet, D'Ryian, Dorian, Destyni, Rylian, Ramontis, Kyla, Kellis, Kade, Zephan, Arabella, Ahmaris, Ahmara, Adonis, Aubrey; brother, Artis (Debra) Appling, Jr.; sister, Crystal (Kenneth Moore) Edwards; 7 nieces and nephews, Alanda (Shaun) Sams, Breonna Appling, Artis III, Adonis Appling, Alexis Appling, Artez Appling, Theodore "TJ" (Ja'Lisa) Brown; and a host of extended family and friends.

In compliance with CDC COVID-19 guidelines, a socially-distanced (masks required) Celebration of Life Service will be held graveside 11 a.m., Tuesday, September 22 with visitation of family and friends from 10-11 a.m., at Oak Hill East Cemetery, 2900 Crill Avenue, Palatka, Rev. Karl N. Flagg, Pastor of Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, Palatka, is the eulogist. Interment with U.S. Army military honors.