Robert “Bobby” Wayne Crocker, 75, passed away peacefully at his home on February 5, 2024. He was born on September 26, 1948, in Doe Run, Missouri, in a 2-room log cabin on top of Stony Mountain to his late parents, Claude Andrew Crocker, Sr. and Ila Marie Crocker. Bobby was one of eight children, including the late Betty Turner, the late Claude "Sonny" Crocker, Joyce Shy of Bismarck, MO, the late Carol Ruff, Randy Crocker (Darlene) of Broken Bow, OK, Sandra Weiss (Terry) of Bismarck, MO, and Roger Crocker of Farmington, MO.

Bobby is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly Ann Crocker, who was the love of his life. Together, they created a family filled with love and support. Bobby leaves behind two children, Christina Cost (Andy) of Krum, TX, and Scott Crocker (Amber) of Troy, TX.

In addition to his children, Bobby is also survived by two granddaughters: Bridget Cost of Nacogdoches, TX, and Alyssia Crocker of Troy, TX. His legacy extends beyond his immediate family, as he was a cherished figure to many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, great-grandnieces, and great-grandnephews. He also played the role of a father and grandfather figure to numerous others, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those around him.

Bobby relocated with his family to Bismarck, MO, where he attended Bismarck Elementary in Bismarck, MO then Doe Run High School in Doe Run, MO, until its closure right before his senior year due to low enrollment. He graduated from Farmington High School in 1967. Following graduation, he pursued electrical certification at a local technical school while engaging in various jobs, including assisting at his father's filling station, yard maintenance, and other odd jobs. He had a passion for horses and automotive work.

During a chance encounter at a local car wash, Bobby reconnected with a childhood acquaintance, now a charming young woman, whom he remembered as having pigtails. He and Beverly married on September 5, 1970, and welcomed a daughter in 1971. Transitioning to civilian life as a Vietnam veteran posed many challenges, leading him to leave the USMC in 1974 as a Lance Corporal and enlist in the US Army as an E1. The family moved to Ft. Knox, KY for Bobby’s training, and following completion of this training, he earned his sergeant stripes.

His military postings took him to Ft. Riley, KS, and later to an overseas assignment in Korea, leaving a pregnant Beverly and his daughter stateside. Upon returning in 1977, he met his 10-month-old son for the first time, and the family relocated to Ft. Hood, TX, where his brother was also stationed, sharing a unique familial connection with the base's history. Further overseas duty followed in Germany with the 8th Cavalry before his honorable discharge as a Staff Sergeant in 1981.

Post-military life saw Bobby settling in Harker Heights, TX, working as a regional truck driver for Gulf Oil and contributing to his local church's bus ministry. Later, he moved to Troy, TX, where he embarked on a career with Mrs. Baird's, initially as a route salesman and later in a thrift store role, culminating in a 25-year tenure before retiring.

He and his wife Beverly enjoyed their retirement years in Port Boliver, where they cherished beachside relaxation and involvement in charitable endeavors such as Operation Christmas Child. Bobby also relished reconnecting with his Marine Corps comrades and participating in reunions, with a poignant visit to the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington DC among his most cherished memories. His granddaughters occupied a cherished corner in his heart, and he took immense pride in their academic pursuits. Bobby found joy in attending significant milestones in their lives, including dance performances, band contests, and various events at the fair. Being present for these important moments brought him immense happiness, and his memory will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

Celebration of Life - Troy First Baptist Church, Troy, TX

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Visitation 10 AM with Service 11 AM

Instead, of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse (Operation Christmas Child) https://samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/

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