Robert Byrne Rees

Robert Byrne Rees was born on November 25, 1952, in Pensacola, Florida, to Grover Joseph Rees, Jr. and Patricia Byrne Rees. The second of twelve children, Robert spent his early years in Hawaii, Virginia, and Maryland before making his home in Louisiana. Following high school, Robert served in the United States Marine Corps from 1970 to 1972. After returning home, he went on to earn his first degree from the University of Southwestern Louisiana. He served for a decade with the Lafayette Police Department and as a Louisiana State Trooper. He later earned his Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center in 1984.

Known to everyone as Robbie, his work as a public servant was not just a profession. Through his words and his actions, he embodied what he believed to be his purpose in life; taking care of those he loved. He possessed the unique ability to befriend almost anyone he talked to, and the gift of making people feel as though they were his own family. He found his greatest fulfillment in the happiness and well-being of others, leaving behind countless friendships and lives made better by his presence and influence.

Above all else, Robbie loved his four beautiful children, whom he shared with Sally Billeaud Rees, his loving wife. They were the greatest joy of his life, his proudest accomplishment, and the center of his world. No professional achievement or public distinction could ever compare to the love he felt for them. Though Robbie gave so much of himself to his community, friends, and even strangers, his greatest gift was the boundless love he gave his children and wife.

Robbie is survived by his loving wife, Sally Billeaud Rees; their four children, Jennifer “J” Rees, Michael Rees, Connor Rees, and Landon Rees; and his siblings, Joseph Rees (Lan Dai), John Rees (Linda), Stephen Rees, Kathy Shires (Ed), Charlie Rees, Peggy Crain (David), Tommy Rees (Dane Winters), Danny Rees (Kay), Mary Rees, and Jimmy Rees (Jeannine Lanoux).

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and hundreds of friends who were fortunate to know and love him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ricky Rees.

Robbie lived a life filled with love, laughter, friendship, and service to others. He never met a stranger, never hesitated to help someone in need, and had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. His legacy will live on through his children, his family, the countless friendships he made, and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever appreciated by those fortunate enough to have known him.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Visitation on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 with visitation starting at 10:00a.m. with the Rosary Prayer at 11:00 a.m. followed by Mass at 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady Of the Lake Catholic Church 312 Lafitte St, Mandeville, LA 70448. Burial to follow in the Saint Joseph Abbey Cemetery 75376 River Rd, St Benedict, LA 70457.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that you make donations to the Louisiana State Trooper Association at https://www.latroopers.org