Robert Lee “Bob” Gearhart, who died Thursday, December 28th at the age of 88 after a long courageous battle with Parkinson’s. Bob, the son of Alvin and Thelma Gearhart, was born at home in Rainelle, West Virginia. He was preceded in death by both parents, his loving wife Barbara Pruitt Mauldin Gearhart, his two sons Allen Jefferey and Michael Morgan, and his sisters Jean Edore, Alice Yeargeo, and Ramona Hancock.
Bob graduated from Rainelle High School and entered the United States Navy. He served in the Korean War aboard the USS Saratoga. He began his college education with the University of Maryland while stationed at Atsugi, Japan Air Station. Upon returning to the states Bob was stationed at the Navy School in Athens, Georgia for 5 years. All total, he served 30 years in the navy. He loved his time in the service and credits it with developing his maturity and work ethic.
He completed his college degree while working at the University of Georgia School of Veterinary Medicine. He was an administrator at the Vet School where he was admirably referred to as “Mr. G”. He retired from the University after 20 years of employment.
Bob and Barbara were members of Johnson Drive and Green Acres Baptist Church. Bob enjoyed teaching bible school classes and serving in several other capacities. He was devoted to his faith and living a good Christian life.
Bob is survived by his son Kenneth Mauldin and his wife Anne, and Charles Keith Mauldin. Both sons reside in Athens. He adored his grandchildren Luke Robert Mauldin and his wife Macie of Gainesville, Ga, and Landis Grace Mauldin of Macon, Ga and his beloved dog, Patches, who protected Bob until the end.
The family would like to thank Melissa and Tequila from Kindred Hospice, and Christopher’s Bridge for their help in caring for Bob. They showed the family, and Bob, love and respect as if they were a part of the family.
Visitation will be Saturday, December 30, 2017 at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM and a service for both Bob and Barbara will follow at 11:00 AM in the funeral home chapel. Lord and Stephens East is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com
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