Obituaries
Pastor Robert Lewis Flannagan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend to all, and devoted servant of God, departed this earthly life on September 3, 2025. Born on July 13, 1943, in Athens, Alabama, Robert was the sixth of seven children of Beatrice and Detroit Flanagan.
From an early age, Robert was adventurous, hardworking, and valued education. He embraced the joys of childhood, swimming, fishing, sports, and shooting marbles—before attending Miller Public School and later Trinity High School where he excelled as a student-athlete. Following his high school years, Robert joined his siblings in Chicago, Illinois, where he was encouraged by family and church parishioners to pursue higher education. With their support of financial resources, he enrolled at Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee and embarked on his educational journey. Majoring in kinesiology and physical education, Robert was the first in his family to attain a college degree. A gifted athlete, he excelled in basketball, earning the nickname “Pretty Flea” for his finesse style of play on the court. He proudly pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., honoring the principles of brotherhood and service throughout his life. Robert also met Eddie Anderson, his college roommate and life long friend of over 62 years.
While at Lane, Robert met the love of his life, Ella Louise Ingram. Their union of over 61 years was blessed with two sons, Dwaine and Dexter, whom they lovingly raised in Memphis, Tennessee. Robert furthered his education by earning a master’s degree plus 45 from the University of Arkansas at Jonesboro and was the first in his family to attain a postgraduate degree.
He began his career as a probation officer for the state of Tennessee, a position he held for ten years before transitioning to the Memphis City Schools System. There, he shaped countless young lives, where he taught physical education and played softball in his spare time. Robert's career flourished as he rose from a first-time teacher at Sheffield High School to the Assistant Principal of Snowden Junior High School. After serving for many years, he retired happily as an Attendance Officer. Ever enterprising, he also co-founded Harris Dry Cleaners with his dear friend, James Cunningham.
In the 1970s, Robert answered his divine calling to ministry, serving faithfully alongside respected pastors Lafayette Morris Sr., Jesse Smith, and James Sultan. In 1993, he oversaw the construction of Miracle Temple, a non-denominational church on West Shelby Drive in Memphis, where he humbly served as Pastor and Leader for over three decades.
Outside of ministry and work, Robert enjoyed life’s simple pleasures of hunting, fishing, treasure-hunting in pawn shops, and relaxing with western movies. In recent years, he found joy in fellowship at the Goodwill Community Center and cherished mornings over breakfast and “the best coffee in the world according to Robert” at McDonald’s with his college roommate, Mr. Anderson, and other close friends.
Pastor Robert Flannagan leaves to honor his memory, his devoted wife, Ella; his sons, Dwaine (Karyn) and Dexter; three beloved and extraordinary grandchildren, Lauryn, Jayden, and Caden; siblings, Margaret, Cora, and Susie; and a host of extended family, church members, and lifelong friends. His legacy of love of God, kindness, dedication, and service to others, will forever be cherished by all who knew him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Serenity Funeral Home, Tel.(901)379-0861.
Previous Events
Visitation
12
Sep
663 W. Shelby Dr.
Memphis, Tn 38109
Visitation
13
Sep
663 W. Shelby Dr.
Memphis, Tn 38109
Service
13
Sep
663 W. Shelby Dr.
Memphis, Tn 38109
Cemetery Details
Location
4536 Horn Lake Rd.
Memphis, TN 38109
