Bobby J. Lister

Bobby J. Lister, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the age of 87. Bobby was born to Vaught and Alta Dill Lister and raised in Tigerville, SC.

He was the first in his family to attend college, graduating from North Greenville College in 1958 and going on to attend the SC Bankers School of Banking. Bobby’s commitment to service and community was reflected in his long and successful career in banking. He started as a teller at People's National Bank and, after 35 years, he retired in 1997 as a Vice President at Bank of America. His dedication extended beyond his professional life, as he was an active member of the Parker Rotary Club for over 15 years, including a term as President and earning the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award. Bobby also played an instrumental role in the creation of the Rotary Night of Music, benefiting the choral groups of Berea, Travelers Rest, and Parker High Schools.

His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted member of Taylors First Baptist Church for over two decades. Bobby served as a deacon, participated on various committees, and formed countless lasting relationships. He was passionate about sharing his faith and faithfully began each day with devotions and scriptures that he knew by heart. His favorite Bible verses were Deuteronomy 31:8 and John 3:16.

Bobby’s love for family was profound. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Dianne; daughters Sheri Metz (Paul) and Andrea Coker (Jack); son Jeffrey Lister (Victoria); and his grandchildren Lauren Southern (Michael), Lindsey Metz and Leah Metz, as well as his four great-grandchildren, who affectionately called him Papa Joe. His deep love for his family also included numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family.

Bobby was predeceased by his parents, his first wife Avice Fowler Lister, his brothers Golden, Fred, Clois, Boyd, Clifton, and his sister Mildred L. Pittman.

A lover of the outdoors and hands-on projects, Bobby was happiest when he was on his tractor, tending to his garden, or helping a neighbor with a repair. His patience, steady demeanor, and knack for fixing things, no matter how broken, left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Bobby believed that nothing was ever too broken to be fixed.

Bobby’s legacy of humble faith, service, and love for his family and community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation for Bobby will be held Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church, 200 W Main St, Taylors, SC 29687 followed by the funeral at 2:00 PM. Burial will be at Double Springs Baptist Church in Taylors, SC. Live stream will be available at https://watchlive.taylorsfbc.org/

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made on behalf of Bobby to the Roger C. Peace Rollin' Tigers Wheelchair Basketball Team, 300 E. McBee Ave., Suite 401 Greenville, SC 29601-2882.