Robert Charles Dunphy

*In Loving Memory of Robert Charles Dunphy*

/April 30, 1950 – July 28, 2025/

Robert Charles Dunphy, a beloved husband, artist, musician, and historian, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at the age of 75. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Bob was a proud Texan who cherished his heritage, his family, and his passions. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Stella Callejo Diaz, mother, Carmen Dunphy, and his sister, Stella Gildemeister. He is survived by his devoted wife, Doris Dunphy.

A graduate of Central Catholic High School, Bob went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin. His career as a photographer spanned many years. He worked for the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, then moved to New York for a few years, where he photographed notable personalities and events. Eventually returned home to San Antonio where he built and ran his own photography studio and also worked several years in the dark room developing for Billo Smith Photography.

A gifted musician, Bob never learned to read music, but taught himself to play multiple instruments by ear. He performed in both Irish and country bands and had a unique talent for composing and arranging music. Also a passionate Irish dancer, he performed for many years with the O’Maoileidigh Irish Dancers and The San Antonio Irish Dancers, sharing joy through rhythm and tradition.

Aside from his many years as a dancer, Bob was active in multiple sports both as a child and an adult. While in school, he participated in football and baseball and eventually played rugby as a young man. But he had a softer side, as well.

Although he had no children of his own, he was a source of great love to his niece, Lisa, nephew, Hal, and his great-niece and great-nephew, as well as multiple relationships through his marriage.

A kindhearted animal lover Bob cherished the companionship of multiple pets throughout his life, from a hummingbird he rehabilitated, a guinea pig, cats and dogs to eventually horses, and a small heard of calves for a short period of time.

He was a proud member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), where his love of history and storytelling found a perfect home. Whether writing tales for his own enjoyment, conducting historical research, or immersing himself in reenactments, Robert was always exploring and celebrating the richness of the past.

He made friends everywhere he went from people he met in his travels, through his work and even the receptionists in his many doctor’s offices. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but especially by Doris, his beloved partner in all things.

A mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic church in San Antonio, Texas, at 10 A.M. on Friday August 29, 2025 followed by a reception/wake to celebrate Robert’s life in the way he would have wanted—surrounded by music, stories, and laughter.

May he rest in peace, and may his song never fade