Robert Joe Battles, Sr.

Robert Joe Battles, Sr., 85, Pensacola, FL passed away Wednesday, November 3, 2021. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 12, 2021 at Collier-Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. L. Dale Butler officiating. Interment with military honors will be at New Bethel Cemetery, Hokes Bluff, AL. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Collier-Butler Funeral & Cremation Services, Gadsden, AL.

Mr. Battles attended school and Jr. College in Meridian, MS, where he lived for many years. He began working as a carpenter for a local business; his hard work and innovative designs propelled his position to Vice President of production in only 10 years.

In 1970, a company expansion brought him to Gulfport, MS.

In 1980, he opened his own business “Components by Robert Battles”. In only 4 short years, the success of his company received State and National recognition. In 1984, he was honored in ceremonies at the Governor’s Mansion and by President Ronald Regan in Washington, DC as the Small Business person of the year. His business was the 1st in the state of Mississippi to receive funding from the SBA’s 503 program. Vice President George Bush presented a flag in his honor that was flown over the Capitol Building. May 13, 1984 was declared Robert Battles day by the City of Gulfport.

He served as President of the Home Builder’s Association, and was featured in several publications.

In the early 2000’s, he relocated to Pensacola, FL and opened “Battles Plumbing & Construction”, serving as president until his retirement.

An avid golfer, he attended tournaments at Augusta and the Masters just to name a few.

He loved fishing and flying and held a private pilot license.

He traveled extensively all over the world.

Mr. Battles served honorably in the USMCR, and received a Meritorious Mast Award for his exemplary service and leadership skills.

Those preceding him in death were his parents, Richard Battles, Sr. and Catherine Battles; siblings, Richard Battles, Jr., Ruby Battles, Billy Battles, Jimmy Battles and Juanita Battles and infant daughter, Johnnie Carol Battles.

Survivors include his children, Robert Battles, Jr, Gulfport, MS, James Battles, Gulfport, MS and Teresa Tibbetts, Meridian, MS; 7 Grandchildren; 13 Great Grandchildren; 1 Great Great Grandchild; siblings, Marjorie Crawford, FL, Susan Warren, FL, Raymond Battles, MS and Ronald Battles, CA; and several nieces and nephews.