Robert Hughes Scott

Robert Hughes Scott passed away at his home in Skull Valley on June 8, 2015 at the age of 84. He was born in central Ohio to Robert T. and Mary Elizabeth Hughes Scott. The family moved to Phoenix in 1944, where Robert graduated from North High. His long career in law enforcement began in 1953 when he joined the Phoenix Police Department. He served both as a patrolman and as a motorcycle officer. In 1963, Robert became an investigator for the Arizona State Welfare Department. He then worked as a security officer for a defense contractor in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, from 1968 to the beginning of 1972. He made a major career step in June 1972 when he was hired as a deputy sheriff in Yavapai County by Sheriff Al Ayars. Robert reached the rank of lieutenant in 1974, and then was appointed Sheriff in August when Sheriff Ayars resigned to accept a post as Undersheriff for Maricopa County. He ran for Sheriff in the 1976 election, but was defeated by Harold "Curly" Moore, who then hired him for the position of sergeant in southwestern Yavapai County. He served in this capacity until his retirement in 1993. A highlight of Robert's career was his service as chief pilot for the county. Flying was his great love, and he flew many prisoner extraditions to the western states, as well as search and rescue missions. Throughout his long career with the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office, Robert remained dedicated to his work and to his men. He was a gifted leader as well as a man who made friends everywhere he went. During his retirement years, he enjoyed raising vegetables, tinkering with old cars and trucks, and attending the Reno Air Races each year with his brother and son. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert T. Scott, his mother, Mary Elizabeth Scott; and stepmother, Marion Ward Scott. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Barbara; his sons Robert (Jennifer) of Chino Valley and Kevin (Carol) of North Carolina; seven grandchildren; a brother, James Scott (Judy); a sister, Nancy Robinette; a niece and a nephew. Private services will be held. Donations in Robert's name may be sent to Yavapai County Mounted Sheriff's Posse Inc. P.O. Box 95, Prescott 86302. Hampton Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements. Information provided by survivors.

Robert Hughes Scott

March 1, 1931 - June 8, 2015