Robert Frank Cobb

Frank was born on March 6th,1944, in Anniston, AL, the only child of the late Georganna and Calvin Cobb. Growing up in Anniston, he was raised by his parents and his late grandparents, Etta and Frank Cobb, and Robert and Florence Dethrage. He graduated from Anniston High in 1962, where he ran track and played halfback on the football team and was known affectionately by his teammates as “Wild Man”. Frank graduated from Auburn University in 1966 with a degree in industrial engineering, also earning his commission in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through ROTC. He went on to earn an MBA at Jacksonville State University in 1971.

After two years of active duty in the Army, he transferred to the Army Reserve, where he served for 25 years and retired in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Frank started working as a civil servant at Ft. McClellan’s Department of Engineering and Housing in 1970. When the fort closed, he went on to work for the Alabama National Guard until 2005.

Frank loved fishing and his Auburn Tigers, but really these were just activities that allowed him to spend time with his kids, which was his favorite thing. Until his last day, he was passionate about whatever activity his kids and grandkids were in, attending countless ball games, wrestling matches, and track meets.

Frank was known for his big personality and his devotion to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Jo Ann; two sons and two daughters-in-law, Tory Cobb (Parmy) of Panama City Beach, and Brent Cobb (Erin) of Huntsville; grandchildren Sarah, Lily, Ephraim, and Nathaniel; a special cousin, Sonja Parris of Jacksonville, whom he considered a sister.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday June 22nd, at Church of the Covenant, 75 Lenlock Lane, Anniston, AL 36206. Visitation will be from 2-3 p.m. Burial at Forestlawn will follow the service. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Frank’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Church of the Covenant.