Bobbie Frank Porter, age 82, of Brentwood, TN, passed on June 18, 2025. She was born in Shelbyville, TN on January 28, 1943, to Dorthy and Robert L. Cates. Bobbie graduated from Central High, Shelbyville High School. After high school, she obtained her cosmetology certificate and began her lifelong career in hair styling. She worked for some of the best salons in the area before founding her own business—Bobbie’s Beauty Box—which became one of South Nashville’s most popular salons, known for booking appointments every 15 minutes. She was a hairstylist and owned her salon for a total of 24 years.
Bobbie met the love of her life, James Robert Porter, at the Triune 66 service station, and they were married on December 18, 1963, at the Triune Methodist Church. Together, they raised two children, Robert Porter (Katy Porter) and Pamela Farrell (Scott Farrell), and were blessed with five grandchildren: Andrew (Hannah Farrell), Grace Farrell, Jenna Worth (McKenzie Worth), Annie Porter, and Sam Porter. Known as “Nana,” Bobbie was deeply devoted to her family, creating lasting memories through travel, storytelling, and shared laughter. The family often enjoyed weekends and holidays boating and camping at local lakes.
Bobbie served as a Sunday school teacher and youth leader alongside her husband at Tusculum Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and later joined Brentwood United Methodist Church. Despite the demands of running a busy salon, she always made time to support her children in their activities and sports. After retiring, Bobbie developed a passion for golf, often playing as many as 36 holes in a day at Brentwood Country Club as she worked to master the game. She also traveled extensively with her husband, Jim.
Bobbie was a loyal friend known for her honesty—those who knew her knew to expect the truth if they asked for her opinion. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.
Visitation will be held on June 30th at 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 3:00 PM, both at Brentwood United Methodist Church. Burial will follow services at Triune Methodist Church, 7906 Nolensville Road.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be designated to: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Center for Youth Minister Training (Brentwood United Methodist Church), or Brentwood United Methodist Church South Africa Outreach.
