RT "Burdette" Royalty Sr

R.T. "Burdette" Royalty Sr., age 96, passed away on April 13, 2026. He was born on February 11, 1930, to Paul and Isabelle (Butler) Royalty in Iowa.

Burdette dedicated many years of his career to Elliott Company in Omaha, where he worked in sales and took on a variety of roles throughout his time there. He was also a proud over-the-road truck driver for many years, embracing the independence of the open road and the experiences it brought.

A man of strong values and lifelong commitment, Burdette was a member of the Masons for over 50 years, forming lasting friendships and contributing to his community through that brotherhood.

He will be remembered for his work ethic, resilience, and the relationships he built throughout his long and full life.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Burdette Royalty Jr.; an infant daughter, Paula; his previous wife, Velma Royalty; and an infant brother, Paul De Loss Jr. ; father-in-law, Wayne Colvin and Emery Wallace; mother -in-law, Dorothy Snowden.

RT is survived by his wife, Dawn; his children, Dorie (Jim) Barcus; grandchildren, Eric (Cheryl) Royalty, Jamie (Tim) Smothers, Mindi Avis, Autumn (Jim) Peabody, Shawn Avis; many great grandchildren; mother - in- law, Mary Lou Colvin; daughter - in- law, Denise Royalty; sisters-in- law, Mary (Bill) Waggoner, Paula (Larry) Kadlec, Valorie Buchholz; and a host of other family and friends.

Visitation will be 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026 with a Masonic Service to begin at 2:00 p.m at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home. A luncheon will follow at the Masonic Temple (130 S. 6th St, Council Bluffs, IA). The family will direct memorials. A private family burial will be held at a later date.