Robert "Bubbles" Choate, Jr.
Longhorn breeder Robert "Bubbles" Choate, Jr., 75, of Judsonia, AR, died August 28, 2010. "Bubbles", as he was known in the Longhorn industry, was active with the TLBAA throughout the 1990s and into the 21st century. His enthusiasm for the breed, for people, and for life earned him the title of "Longhorn Ambassador".
Bubbles traveled to many sales and events around the country spreading the Longhorn word. Everywhere he went, he carried a camera with him to take photos of his friends, new and old.
The "Longhorn Ambassador" was born on September 29, 1934 in Marlin, TX, to Robert and Camella Winch Choate, Sr. His parents were carnival owners and settled in Judsonia, AR. After graduating from Judsonia High School, Bubbles had numerous experiences in life. He worked as a carnival worker, a radio tower painter, shrimp boat owner, Longhorn cattle owner and an antique car trader. He often traveled in a Cadillac with a massive set of horns mounted on the hood.
Bubbles owned and operated Choates Catfish House, a former truck stop near the Little Red River, in Judsonia for many years. The perfect host, he never met a stranger and was well known for his great stories.
Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Brenda Johnson Choate; one son, Dennis Choate and wife Phyllis of McRae; three daughters, Denise and Diane Choate of Little Rock, and Garrie Lou Choate of Judsonia; one brother, Lloyd "Mokey" Choate of Judsonia; one sister, Melba Choate of Searcy; four grandchildren, Danielle, Nicolette, Dustin and Amii James; Five great-grandchildren, Josephine, Max, Ivan, Daisy and Marshall, along with a host of nieces, nephews and extended family and friends across the country; and a very special fishing buddy "Guppy".