Bob (Robert) Shapley was born Boris Schapiro in New York, March 28, 1925 to Ida and Harry Schapiro, who were originally from Russia and came to the US in the early 1900's. He had one brother, Dr. Harry Shapley. Bob was called BABE by his parents, he was a child prodigy, he went to Julliard where he studied classical piano and played at Carnegie Hall. Bob played piano in the Navy band while he served his country from 1943 to 1945. He kept the troops entertained as he toured with the USO around the world during World War 2.
Being an extraordinarily talented musician who was self-taught, he played by ear the piano, organ, accordion, clarinet and other instruments.  He continued with his love for playing piano after World War 2 and played with Curly Fox & Texas Ruby on the weekly TV Show, and the Shep Fields Orchestra. Bob enjoyed performing at Jones Hall and around Houston at all the Country Clubs and he played the accordion for every graduation at River Ranch Dog Training School for 35 years.  He also worked at Holcombe Lindquist for 33 years selling pianos and organs.

Bob married first wife Barbara Ruth Shapley-Seay  in 1954. They met in Galveston while he was on tour, they had two children, Phyllis Susan Shapley- Crowell and Jerome Edward Shapley.

Bob married his second wife, Barbara Sue Storey-Shapley, on October 13, 1970 and worked alongside her at River Ranch breeding, boarding and training dogs for 34 years. Through Barbara, his family grew with the addition of four step children:  Cindy Marie Kelley-Thornby, Chris Alan Kelley, Celeste Anne Kelley-Broughton, and Johnny William Thompson.

Bob was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He cherished his grandchildren and step grandchildren: Michelle Crowell, Sarah Shapley, Kara Hoffer-Shapley, Sister Mary Gianna, Jamie Thornby, Lacey Lauren Thompson.

Bob was always incredibly smart, had a warm heart and was well-liked by everyone he met.  We will always love him and miss him.