Robert "Bobby" Lee Neff Jr.

Bobby grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, and graduated with honors from South High School in 1974. He then attended East Tennessee State University where he was a standout athlete, breaking numerous place-kicking records on the football team. Bobby graduated with honors, receiving his B.S. in Education and Health and Safety. He was a longtime employee of the IJ Company, winning Top Salesman multiple years in a row.Bobby was a man full of boundless energy and unconditional love for all, especially his children and grandchildren who cheerfully named him Bob-O. He loved all things sports, especially golf and football, and never missed an opportunity to cheer on or talk Tennessee sports. He was a member of Central Bearden for over 30 years. Bobby never met a furry friend he didn’t win over and loved spoiling them. We are thankful he was able to just recently spend two of “the best weeks of his life” in Nashville enjoying the company of his daughter’s family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Robert L. Neff Sr., and his grandparents: Oscar and Elsie Edmonds ,Herbert and Wanda Neff.

He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Edmonds Neff (Lib); son, Tyler Neff; daughter, Jenna Neff Gitschlag (Steve); grandchildren, who he absolutely adored, Journey Neff, and Greer and Blakely Gitschlag; sisters, Jayne Neff Gipson (John) and Patti Neff Gray; former wife and longtime friend, Jana Sobolewski Neff and many nieces and nephews. Bobby’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 4:00pm at Central Bearden’s Sanctuary. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at Lib’s home. Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite casual golf attire or come brightly dressed to honor his favorite pastime and celebrate his life with joy. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Young Williams Animal Shelter or to your charity of choice.Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.berryfuneralhome.com for the Neff family.