Robert "Bob" Levi Bleakley

Bob was born on December 24, 1939, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Genevieve Clementine (née Carpenter) Bleakley and James Herbert Bleakley.

In 1958, Bob graduated from H.B. Plant High School with a football scholarship to the University of Georgia, where he played “between the hedges” as an offensive guard for his beloved Bulldogs, before enlisting in the United States Army. Following his honorable military service, Bob used the GI Bill while working in Maryland to attend the University of Maryland, where he earned his bachelor's degree.

A proud American and devoted patriot, Bob's exceptional aptitude led to his recruitment as a Communication Specialist, trained in cryptography. In this highly specialized role, he supported the nation's intelligence efforts by helping decode sensitive communications with the CIA. He later continued serving his country as a civil servant for the White House Communications Agency, working under the administrations of Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Richard M. Nixon. He transitioned to the United States Department of Transportation, serving as both a Regional and National Director. His over three decades of dedicated military & federal service reflected his unwavering commitment to duty, integrity, and love of country.

In 1995, following his retirement, Bob and his first wife, Tina, relocated to Florida to enjoy the sunshine and begin a new chapter together.

Bob embraced life with remarkable energy and determination. A fierce competitor, he never lost a game of checkers and delighted in friendly competition with family and friends. He was a devoted sports fan who faithfully cheered for the Georgia Bulldogs, Tampa Bay Rays, Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Baltimore Orioles. He loved playing fantasy Baseball and drafting his lineup each season. He also enjoyed playing ping-pong and tennis and remained active well into his eighties through the practice of Tai Chi and Taekwondo, inspiring those around him with his discipline and perseverance.

Faith was the cornerstone of Bob's life. For the past 26 years, he was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Palm Harbor Ward of the St. Petersburg Stake, where he faithfully served in the Bishopric, as a clerk, in the Stake as a clerk, and as a High Councilor. In addition, he volunteered as a temple worker, serving at the LDS Orlando Temple for 12 years and taught the Temple Preparation class for over 18 years, along with his 2nd wife, Elena. His steadfast testimony, quiet strength, and willingness to serve blessed the lives of countless family members, friends, and fellow church members.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved first wife of 35 years, Tina Bleakley; his parents; and his brother, James Herbert Bleakley Jr.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elena Bleakley; his “favorite” daughter, Meredith (Kent) Shepherd; his brother, Marvin Bleakley; his grandchildren, Natalie Shepherd (Arden Feldman) and Nate (Derica) Shepherd; his cherished great-grandchildren, Bryn Olive Shepherd and Reid Robert Shepherd; and many extended family members and dear friends. All who spent time with him came away enriched. He loved to play games, tell stories, give bear hugs, and most of all laugh.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home, 2853 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, Florida 33759.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3303 Belcher Road, Dunedin, Florida 34698.

A committal service, with military honors, will follow at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, 2860 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, Florida 33759.

Bob will be remembered as a man of honor, courage, faith, and conviction, a proud patriot who faithfully served his country, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a gentleman whose life was defined by service to God, his nation, and those he loved. His legacy of integrity, strength, and unwavering dedication will live on in all who knew him.