Bobby Gene Gothard

Bobby Gene Gothard, 90 years old of Decatur, AL passed peacefully in his sleep Monday, October 23, 2023. Bobby was a US Navy Veteran, serving in the Korean War on the USS Waldron (DD-699) from February 1952 to December 1953. Before he was honorably discharged, he married his high school sweetheart, Peggy Ann Reynolds of Ardmore, AL on June 2, 1953. They were married 67 years. Peggy preceded him in death December 2020. Bobby was a local truck driver for Baggett and Overnite Transportation Companies. After he retired, he worked for Lynn Layton Chevrolet. However, the most incredible job he had was being the sole caregiver for his wife, Peggy, the last 10 years of her life. Their marriage was a true example of love “in sickness and in health.” Bobby loved playing basketball and softball with his brothers on their high school teams. He was also a softball pitcher for his Navy team. His love of sports carried over to a passion for Alabama sports, especially football and softball. On his 90th birthday, Bobby was surprised with a visit from Alabama running back, Bobby Humphrey (1985-1988) with autographed photos and football, plus he received an autographed photo from current Alabama softball player, Emma Broadfoot. On top of these wonderful surprises, his last gift came from Coach Nick Saban and Ms. Terry; autographed football, hat and photo. The happiness these special acts of kindness were some of his most cherished material treasures. Bobby lived with his daughter and son-in-love the last three years in Vincent, AL. Bobby was blind in his later years; however, it did not slow him down loving his six great-grandkids, ages 2-12. He was blessed to have them close to spend a lot of time with them and his four grandkids. The joy they brought him was immeasurable. Bobby, born in Guntersville, AL in 1933 was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Ann Gothard; son, Kelvin Gene Gothard; mother and step-father Sibyl and William Reed; father, George Gothard; five sisters and two brothers. Survivors: Daughter, Vickie Gothard Mink and son-in-love, Paul Mink of Vincent, AL; Grandchildren: Todd and Amanda Mink of Vestavia Hills, AL; Gregory and Elizabeth Mink of Moody, AL; Great-grandchildren: Mason, Wyatt, Cooper, Layna, Grant and Lorie Mink; Siblings: Irene Bunn Richardson of Tony, AL; Jerry (Buddy) Gothard of Guntersville, AL. Funeral Service will be Monday, October 30, 2023 at 2:00pm at Shelton Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be from 1:00pm-2:00pm at the funeral home. Burial will be in Roselawn Cemetery with Tony Edwards officiating. Bobby was a member of Decatur Church of Christ and in lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests memorial donation be made to Project Unify at Decatur Church of Christ or Hospice of the Valley, PO Box 2745, Decatur, AL or Lakeside Hospice, 4010 Masters Road, Pell City, AL.

Bobby Gene Gothard

June 25, 1933 - October 23, 2023