Robert Earl Bush

Robert Earl Bush, 92, of Spencer, WV, passed away peacefully at Roane General Hospital on August 24, 2025, with family by his side.  A beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Bob’s passing is met with deep sadness and a renewed hope that we will see him again in Heaven.

Born in Five Forks, WV on January 6, 1933, the only son of William Earl, I and Mildred (Jackson) Bush, Bob lived a life that spanned nearly a century of change and progress. A man of quiet strength and enduring kindness, he will be remembered for his steadfast presence and dedication to his family and the community.

During his life of service, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of seventeen and one half and turned eighteen in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on a military carrier bound for the theatre of war.  He proudly served his country during the Korean War and was stationed in Liverpool, England.  It was following his time in Europe that he returned home to Calhoun County, and when having photographs developed from his travels, met the love of his life.  Bob and Freeda married on May 22, 1953, and moved to Montgomery, Alabama where Bob served on Maxwell Air Force Base.  

Following this and the conclusion of his Air Force career, Bob and Freeda returned home to West Virginia where he began working for Calhoun Super Service and later served first as a member of the Army Reserve, then transferring to the WV National Guard.  A talented mechanic, he worked at Goodyear Aircraft, Calhoun Super Service, Fruehauf, and Crihfield Motors and was always working on a small engine project, or several in his spare time.

Much of Bob’s family had employment in the local oil and gas production industry, and he continued this legacy through employment with both Pennzoil and Jamoco. In 1964, Bob joined the United States Postal Service as a rural letter carrier.  This career was one Bob enjoyed each day, where he was known for his sense of humor and strong work ethic, and from which he happily retired in 1992.  

Bob had many passions throughout his life, including fishing, gardening, and farming.  He was a beloved fixture in his community, volunteering with numerous organizations throughout his years and sharing his wisdom with all who knew him. He was most proud of his devotion to the Spencer American Legion Post 21, where he fondly remembered holding every local office and serving as District Vice Commander.  He will be remembered for his love of a clever joke, and his appreciation for beauty in everyday life. His children and grandchildren will also always remember his love for recycling all that he could.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Freeda Mae (Goodnight) Bush; his parents; sisters Madeline Schultz, Winona Czaja, and Betty Durst; grandson, Matthew Robert Murray.

Bob is survived by his children, Susan Mercer (Nick); Roberta “Bobbi” Board (Randall); Janet Murray (Robert); William Earl Bush II (Tammy); and Kristina Starcher (Roger).  He is also survived by his grandchildren, Gareth Mercer (Emma); Misty Ancion (Jimmy); Adam Mercer; Lakin Board (Angelina); Kayla Bush Bryant; Katheryn Ogle (Nathaniel); Joseph Robert Bush (Kayla); Clarissa Corbitt (Austin); and Chase Starcher (Jessie).  Bob was also adored by his great-grandchildren, Lillian, Lila, and Lydia Ancion; Tres Mabry; Savannah and Autumn Bryant; Caspar Mercer; Alexandra, Henry, and Nicholas Robert Ogle; Declan and Annabelle Board; and Saylor and River Corbitt.  Also surviving are his sisters, Joan Hawthorne and Carolyn Kelley, and many nieces and nephews who will also miss their “Uncle Bob” whom he loved and enjoyed immensely.  Bob is also survived by his special companion, Jo Anna Camp, with whom he enjoyed music, traveling, and really good food.  His legacy of love, integrity, and simply doing the right thing will live on forever in their hearts.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Bob’s life will be held at John H. Taylor Funeral Home, 406 Market Street, Spencer, WV on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:00 am with Pastor Danny Whited officiating. Burial, with military honors will be in Nobe Cemetery, Five Forks, Calhoun County. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6-9 pm at the funeral home. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Bob’s church, Zion Methodist Church, 554 Clay Road, Spencer, WV 25276 or American Legion Post 21, P.O. Box 254, Spencer, WV 25276. 

Condolences may be shared at www.taylorfuneralhomeinc.com