Robert Thomas Nugent's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Robert Thomas “Rob” Nugent
May 21, 1970 – December 6, 2025
A Life of Courage, Conviction, and Love
Robert Thomas “Rob” Nugent, a man whose courage, conviction, and heart shaped every life he touched, passed away on December 6, 2025, surrounded by loving family members, leaving a legacy of service, strength, and unforgettable love. Born on May 21, 1970, at Mound Park Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida, Rob grew into the kind of person people relied on instinctively, dependable, loyal, brilliant, and resolute. He was, in every way, a true original.
Education and Career
Rob graduated from Northeast High School in 1988, where he was a mainstay on the Viking wrestling team and would first meet the love of his life and future wife Kelly Nugent (Floyd). After attending St. Pete Junior College, he attended Quincy College in Quincy, Illinois. Rob then entered the Florida Fire College, where his future began to take shape.
Rob dedicated 31 years of his life to serving the City of St. Petersburg, including 29 distinguished years with St. Pete Fire Rescue. Rising through the ranks to become District Chief before his retirement, he earned a reputation as a leader whose presence steadied the room and whose guidance shaped the careers of countless firefighters. He mentored with intention, led with humility, and gave to others without ever asking for anything in return.
Family and Loved Ones
Rob was predeceased by his uncle Warren “Butch” DeButy and his Nana Lorraine Yeitz. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Kelly, and their beloved sons, Luke Thomas and Brady Thomas, who were the pride of his life. He is also survived by his brother Brian Thomas Nugent (Julie); his mother and step-father Karen and Jim Harte; his father Ralph Nugent; nephews Jakob Thomas Nugent and Joshua Thomas Nugent; his aunt Donna McAuley (John); numerous family members, a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and brothers and sisters in the fire service—most notably Bob Bassett and Frank “T-Leg” Telegdy, who will forever feel his absence.
A Man of Principle
Those who knew Rob knew a man of principle: his integrity was unwavering, his word absolute. He was courageous both physically and mentally, selfless to his core—always the FIRST one in, always the LAST one out. He was meticulous, clever, and immensely strong, gifted with an intelligence and creativity that made him a natural problem solver and a fixer of everything—people, situations, and broken things alike. And he was hilarious. Rob’s quick wit, sharp impersonations, and endless well of stories could turn any gathering into a celebration. Fun-loving and full of life, he made every person around him feel seen, valued, and included.
Legacy
To call Rob a hero is to speak a simple truth. For 29 years with St. Pete Fire Rescue, he walked into danger so that others might live. Homes stand today because of him. Families remain whole because of him. And countless lives were made better—safer, steadier, fuller—because he was part of them.
Rob Nugent will be remembered as a husband, father, son, brother, mentor, leader, and friend—but also as something rarer: a man who lived exactly what he believed. A man impossible to forget.
May his courage inspire, his laughter echo, and his love continue to guide those who were blessed to know him.
A service for Rob Nugent will be held December 20, 2025 at 12PM at Grace Lutheran Church located at 4301 16th St. N. St. Petersburg, FL.
In lieu flowers please donate to Tunnel to Towers at the link below:
https://dogood.t2t.org/give/320847/?_gl=1*frth4k*_gcl_au*MTQ1MjYzMTMyNy4xNzY1MTI1NDU1*_ga*MTUyNTQxMjg5NC4xNzY1MTI1NDU2*_ga_KKJBEGGEYM*czE3NjUyODgxNjYkbzMkZzAkdDE3NjUyODgxNjYkajYwJGwwJGgw#!/donation/checkout
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?