Bobby Camp Goforth

Bob grew up in Rutherfordton, North Carolina. Second oldest of 5 siblings born to Annette and Oliver Hunter Goforth, he graduated from Rutherfordton-Spindale Central High School with First Honors in 1950. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill from 1950-1954, graduating with a BS in business. He was president and social chairman of his fraternity and active in campus affairs. After college, he met and married the love of his life Betty Jo Hale. Bob sold pharmaceuticals for Ciba-Geigy. Later, he became an economic development specialist with the Bureau of the Indian affairs, living on the Cherokee Reservation. The state of North Carolina noticed his skills and recruited him to the North Carolina Division of Commerce and Development. After a successful career there, Bob transferred to the private sector with CRS Sirrene and became an international presence in the economic development world. At the age of 65, he found himself with the opportunity to open his own consulting firm with Robert Leak, Sr, his longtime friend and associate. This partnership continued for 20 years until the “national treasures of economic development ” finally retired.

Bob received many accolades and awards in the business world , both state and national. He was emeritus member of many organizations including NASD, IDRC and SEDC. In addition to his contribution to the economic development from a business perspective, Bob was a North Carolina Industrial Development instructor at the UNC School of Government.

Most importantly, Bob was an exceptional son, friend, brother, husband, father and grandfather. Predeceased by his wife, Jo, he is survived by his daughter Dawn Geer, grandsons Alex Geer and Hunter Geer (Liv), brothers John Goforth (Yvonne) and Warren Goforth (Marsha), multiple nieces and nephews, Anne and Bob Kelly and daughters Andrea and Tami. Bob will be missed by dozens of friends all the country. Many thanks to all who have reached out in love at his passing.

The service information is as follows;

Friday, October 11 at 2:00

Jesse Ball Dupont Center

40 East Adams Street

Jacksonville FL 32202

Service will be held in the Great Hall