Bobby earned a Bachelor of Science degree from North Georgia College, where he met his future wife of 50 years. He later earned his Master of Education and Specialist in Education. Before beginning his long career in the classroom, he served for three years in the Army. He was a lifetime teacher, retiring from Hardaway High School and continuing to teach at Columbus Technical College, where his work helped enable their Biology accreditation.
Early in life, Bobby’s days were filled with the kind of spirited energy that made for lasting stories—dirtbikes, football, horses, and wide-ranging escapades around Columbus. While studying biology at North Georgia College, he met Jimmie Nell Holland before graduating and going on to serve as a para medic in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC. After an honorable discharge three years later, and following Jimmie’s graduation, Bobby and Jimmie married and moved to Columbus, where he began what would become his great love of teaching. Even with full workdays teaching high school students, he still made time to help his family at the family-owned tree service after school and during summers.
When not building lesson plans or lending a hand cutting trees, Bobby found his joy outdoors—hunting, fishing, archery, camping, and canoeing—and he took special pride in sharing that love with his two sons. In time, he re-ignited his love of motorcycles alongside them as well. As life’s pace eased, Bobby discovered a talent for the harmonica and guitar, playing with multiple bluegrass bands and bringing a quiet kind of presence to every tune.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Lamar and Louise Edwards Tefft. He is survived by his wife, Jimmie; two sons, Robby and Tim; his brother, Eddy Tefft; and his sister, Donna Colwell. Four grandsons and two granddaughters brightened his final 12 years on earth.
Visitation will be held at Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus, GA 31904, on November 24, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life will follow at Wynnbrook Baptist Church on November 24, 2026, at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Miracle Ride Fund, 1147 6th Ave., Columbus, Georgia 31901 (https://cfcv.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1122), or to Wynnbrook Christian School (https://wynnbrookbaptist.churchcenter.com/giving).
