Bobbie Lee 'Bob' Neely

Bobbie Lee 'Bob' Neely, 96, of Barling, Arkansas, was born March 28, 1930, in Muskogee, Oklahoma to David and Elsie (Jarrard) Neely, and peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in Greenwood, Arkansas. Bob received his high school education before enlisting in the United States Navy in May 1948. He faithfully served his country until receiving his first honorable discharge in February 1950. During the Korean War, he answered the call to serve once again, reenlisting in the United States Navy. While stationed aboard the U.S.S. Bairoko (CVE-115), Bob served as a Machinist’s Mate in the engine room and, during General Quarters, operated the ship’s throttle. He proudly continued his military service until receiving his second honorable discharge in June 1954 while stationed in California. Following his military service, Bob met and married his best friend and the love of his life, Jeannie Girty. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. Bob began his civilian career with the City of Carlsbad, California Water Department, where his dedication and leadership earned him the position of Superintendent before his retirement. In retirement, Bob found great joy in country living. He loved tending to his garden and caring for his farm animals, especially his cows and goats. A lifelong learner, he devoted countless hours to researching his family’s genealogy at the library, preserving his family’s history for future generations. Bob also cherished traveling with his wife and granddaughter, creating treasured memories together. Above all, Bob will be remembered for his kind and generous heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, and his selfless spirit, unwavering work ethic, and love for his family and friends will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is now reunited with his parents; brothers; and daughter, Debbie Delaney. Those left to cherish Bob’s memories are his wife, Jeannie; granddaughter, Fauna Martin and husband Jeremy of Fort Smith, Arkansas; great-granddaughter, Hailey Martin; sisters-in-law, Avonne Martin and husband Dale of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma and BJ Hamilton of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma; several members of the Jarrard family; extended family and many friends. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held 10AM Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Webbers Falls First Baptist Church with Reverend Steve Spyres officiating. Committal prayers and interment will follow at Tom Girty Cemetery with Colton Carter, Cody Carter, Colby Carter, Dale Martin, Cody Barnes, and Brian Carter serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers are JC Dotson and Ronnie Jarrard. The family of Bobbie Lee ‘Bob’ Neely has entrusted his care, service and burial to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. (918) 478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

Bobbie Lee 'Bob' Neely

March 28, 1930 - July 2, 2026