Joe “Bobby” Robert Fillingim

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joe Robert “Bobby” Fillingim, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left us on February 2, 2025, at the age of 94. Bobby was born at home on January 9, 1931, in Lynn County, Texas. He graduated from New Home High School, where he not only excelled in academics but also made his mark on the basketball court and on the track.

At a young age, Bobby purchased his first farm and dedicated his life to agriculture. His hard work and passion for farming made him a respected member of the community, and he proudly served on the New Home Co-op Gin Board. Bobby had a love for horses and was an avid fan of horse racing, a hobby that brought him much joy throughout his life. He also owned a second home in Ruidoso, where he created countless cherished memories with family and friends. Bobby was an active member of the New Home Baptist Church throughout his life, where his faith and values shaped his interactions with everyone around him.

In July of 1949, he married Fernie Balch, the love of his life, and together they built a strong family bond rooted in unwavering faith. Bobby was a devoted father to his sons, Mike Fillingim and wife Felicia, Steve Fillingim and wife Gigi, and Andy Fillingim and wife Judi, and his love extended endlessly to his grandchildren, Jenifer Luce and husband Sean, Blaine Fillingim, Jason Reeves and wife Christi, April Chauvette and husband Scott, Audra Cribbs and husband Cy, Scott Fillingim and wife Kristen, Troy Fillingim and wife Jenny, Blake Fillingim, Ross Fillingim, and Brooke Tabor and husband Micheal; twenty-one great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; brother, A.C. Fillingim, Jr.; sister, Bernice Clem and husband Clifton and the many others who graced his life.

Bobby has been reunited with his wife, Fernie; parents, A.C. and Bessie Fillingim; siblings, Betty Mary Blacker, Cary Don Fillingim, Lisa Gay Fillingim.

Bobby’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those he loved and, in the stories, shared by family and friends.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Joe "Bobby" Robert Fillingim, please visit our Tribute Store.