Lorenzo Bitsy Hobbs

Raleigh - Lorenzo “Bitsy” Hobbs, 88, passed peacefully on Friday as he had lived, surrounded by his family and many friends at the home of his niece, Darleen M. Johns, whom he raised like a daughter, at his side. Mr. Hobbs was born at the original Rex Hospital on South Street on September 17, 1925 to the late Milton Ernest Hobbs, Sr. and Effie Mary Poole and was a lifetime resident of Raleigh.He served in the Navy during World War II and was the first Raleigh naval reservist to go on active duty during the Korean War.He was luckier than most, receiving a post at the Navy Armory on the State College campus as a recruiter, where he enlisted his youngest brother Rupert into service. Their mother was very proud that she had four sons who served their country and all returned home safely. Bitsy graduated from Hugh Morson High School and attended North Carolina State College.After his military service, he returned home and was employedas an architect at Kirkhoff and Arnoldand later worked with Associated Brokers and with his brother at Rupert Hobbs Realty in Raleigh. Mr. Hobbs started Capitol Realty in 1970 and retained his real estate license throughout his life. He also worked with his nieces’ company, Alphanumeric Systems. He was a lifelong member of Tabernacle Baptist Church where he was a member of the mens E. W. Jones Sunday School Class and the church choir for over 50 years. Bitsy was an active member of the Golden Hearts Club at Tabernacle. His church family was a large part of his life. He will be remembered fondly for his quick wit that gave him a special charm. Bitsy was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Milton Ernest Hobbs, Jr.; L.T. Hobbs; Rupert Hobbs, and his sister Leatrice Faye Hobbs Matthews. He is survived by his niece Darleen Johns, his special friend Ms. Johnnie Bradley, and many other loving nieces and nephews. The family would like to give a special thanks to Lekita Care and its staff; Alice, Elizabeth and Esther for their superior care during his illness. Family will receive friends4:30-6:30 pm Monday, December 30th, at Tabernacle Baptist Church,8304 Leesville Road, Raleigh, NC 27613. Funeral service will be heldat 11:00 am, Tuesdayat Tabernacle Baptist Church with Dr. Wayne Hager officiating. Interment service will be heldat 2:00 pmin theMontlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tabernacle Baptist Church or to the charity of your choice.