Bobby Ray Barbour

Bobby R. Barbour, 84 passed away Saturday, November 19, 2022 at Wake Med Hospital after a period of declining health. Bobby was born in Smithfield, NC to the late Lena Lee Barbour and Robert (R.J.) Barbour.

Bobby graduated from Smithfield High School and was an active member of the marching band. He proudly joined the US Air Force to serve our country. Upon discharge from the US Air Force, Bobby began his 28-year career as a driver for Greyhound Bus Lines. After retiring from Greyhound, he worked for NC Department of Corrections for 8 years.

Bobby was happiest when playing cards, traveling, reading, listening to music and most importantly spending time with his family and friends. Bobby proudly sang in the choir at St. Andrews UMC. He enjoyed his morning talks and coffee with his friends at the store and Hardee’s. Bobby could often be found volunteering in the community at Garner Area Ministry and Interfaith Food Shuttle. He cherished his time as a member of the Raleigh Greyhound Retirees 1493, McCullers Ruritan Club and Vandora Masonic Lodge #745 in Garner, NC.

Throughout his journey with brain cancer and lung disease he never lost his humor or optimistic outlook. His strong faith was an example to all who knew him. Bobby was a humble, kind and witty man who enjoyed smiling and the sound of laughter.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy Bunch Barbour; daughter Karen Hood and her husband Scott Loosemore of Little River, SC; daughter Tracey Green and her husband Chris Green of Fuquay Varina, NC; grandchildren Jackson Hood, Alexis Hood, Mary Elizabeth Green and Ennis Green. He is also survived by sister Carolyn Royal and her husband Donald Royal; sister Jan Johnson and her husband Bobby Johnson.

Visitation and funeral service will be held Saturday, November 26th at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner, NC. Visitation will begin at 12:00pm, the service will immediately follow at 1:00pm. Entombment will follow at Montlawn Memorial Park, Raleigh, NC.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. Andrews UMC, Garner Area Ministries and The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University. Online condolences may be made to the family at bryan-leefuneralhome.com