Roberta Rae Scarbrough

SCARBROUGH - Roberta “Bobbie” Rae (Anderson) Scarbrough, aged 80, of Grand Rapids, passed away Friday, February 16, 2018. She was born August 24, 1937 to Harry and Ruth (Bliss) Anderson in Benzonia, Michigan. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Dennis H. Scarbrough, and her brother, Dale Anderson. Surviving are her children Kathy and Michael Lutley, Dee Dee and Eric Newberg, Phil and Beth Scarbrough, Russell Sr. and Cindy Scarbrough; Grandchildren Erin & Evan Raden, Josh & Natalie Parker, Ross Scarbrough, Bryan Lutley & Kate Behrens, Ellen Lutley & Steve Cappadonia, and Kevin Lutley & Holland Boertje, Ann & Ryan Olson, Gail Newberg, Russell Jr., and Mackenzie Scarbrough; Step grandchildren Renee & Destin Pewitt, Gary & Tara Laug, and her great-grandchildren, Abigail and Willow Parker, Gavin, Brekken and Rowan Raden, Jane Olson, Keirstyn, Kyleigh, Kaylyn Laug and Alyssa and Jack Pewitt, plus many special family members and friends. Bobbie graduated from Copemish High School in 1955 and from Davenport Business College in 1956. She played basketball, worked on the school newspaper, acted in plays, and played the saxophone. She was a woman of many talents. Bobbie and Dennis were sweethearts since the 7th grade and were married June 21, 1956. They were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary together as a family before Dennis’ passing. Bobbie was a devoted mother to her four children taking on many roles including scout leader, PTA mom, and welcoming host to any and all friends. She maintained that role with her devotion to the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a grateful member of Alanon for many years. Bobbie enjoyed nothing more than a good book or a rousing game of cards. She was a wonderful role model and a woman of great strength and spirit. She will be best remembered for her loving nature, her kindness and generosity, and her humor. She was greatly loved by her family and friends and will be missed unceasingly. According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation with the family is scheduled at noon with funeral services beginning at 1:00 PM Thursday, February 22, 2018 at the Reyers North Valley Chapel. A reception will follow the service. For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, or The Alano Club of Kent Co., 1020 College N.E. Grand Rapids, MI., 49503.