Robert Leroy Hobbs, 85, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013, at NHC Hillview in Columbia.

Robert was born on March 9, 1928, in New Philadelphia, Ohio. Robert grew up in Culleoka with his adoptive parents Mr. and Mrs. Hobbs after living in a children's home in Spring Hill. He was a veteran of both the Air Force and the Army and was proud of his service. He was a member of the American Legion.

In 1973 he married Ruth Davis Hobbs, who preceded him in death. He was a retiree of Union Carbide in Columbia and a member of the Old Lasea Church of Christ in Pottsville. Mr. Hobbs was a former Sheriff's Deputy and also a longtime farmer. Mr. Hobbs will always be remembered for his loving devotion to his dogs.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, William and Bobbie Gray; mother-in-law, Ruby Loftin; and two nieces, Gloria Thomas and Vicki Gray.

Mr. Hobbs is survived by his niece, Marlene (John) Kirk; great-nieces, Christy (Brian) Bennett and Ashley Kirk; great-nephews, Adam Gray and Brian (Tracy) Pullum; a host of great-great-nieces and nephews; and his brother, Billy Hobbs.

The family will visit with friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13.

Funeral services for Mr. Hobbs will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia with Tommy Hood officiating. Burial will follow in the Ring Cemetery in Pottsville and military honors will be provided by Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19.

Pallbearers will be Brian Pullum, Brian Bennett, John Kirk, Adam Gray, and Phil Kincaid.

Honorary pallbearers will be past employees of Union Carbine.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of NHC Hillview for the love and care given to "Hobby."

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Disabled Veteran's of America at www.dav.org.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.williamsfh.com.