Robert and Kitty Tunmire

Given the profound impact Catholicism has had on their lives, Robert and Kitty Tunmire decided to leave a legacy to the church to ensure the Catholic faith continues to flourish in the Diocese of Austin.

“If you’ve been blessed with economic gifts, then you want to leave a certain amount to things that you believe in, that will help those things live on,” Robert said.

By remembering the Catholic Foundation - Diocese of Austin in their estate plan, the Tunmires, who are members of Sacred Heart Parish in Waco, will continue to support seminarians, Catholic schools, retired priests and other programs and ministries that have been important to them during their lifetimes.

The couple sat down and reflected together on their generosity, and how they could still make a difference for years to come. “You’re much better off giving it thought and being thoughtful,” said Robert, who became a Christian in 1999 and then converted to Catholicism after he and Kitty were married. “It doesn't matter what the amount is.”

Robert’s rich faith life led him to establish the Central Texas Fellowship of Catholic Men in 2005. He is now focused on applying the experience he gained during his 44-year career in franchising to launching and organizing a ministry to men in every U.S. diocese.

“We want to see the Catholic faith flourish, and it really is flourishing right now in the Austin Diocese,” Kitty said.