Robert Edward "Bob" Avey

Robert "Bob" Edward Avey, 68, of Phoenix Arizona passed away in his home on Friday May 23, 2025 surrounded by family. Bob was born in Monterey, CA in November 1956 to Command Sergeant Major William and Mary Avey. He spent his early years in Germany and Japan while his father served in the army. The family finally settled in Sierra Vista, Ariz., and Bob attended Buena High School. Bob was an avid sports enthusiast, playing year-round on the football, baseball and basketball teams for his high school. He was the quintessential All-American kid and quarterback of the football team; and many beloved friends referred to him frequently as Buena Bob! During his senior year, Bob received invitations to the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Ultimately, he decided to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he once again played football and helped the team achieve multiple wins against Navy! After graduating from West Point, Bob was a U.S. Army officer who took his commitment to honor and service seriously. He earned his Green Beret as part of the Army Special Forces, completed Ranger School and was proudly airborne qualified. He wasn't just part of the elite units – he led with strength, integrity and heart. Bob decided to pursue a career in business and was honorably discharged as a Captain. He went on to obtain an MBA from Samford University and he achieved great success combining his business acumen and his engineering background from West Point. Bob always maintained his commitment to service of his country. He spent the latter part of his career working as a Senior Project Manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Middle East. Bob was dedicated to his profession, but his true passion was fatherhood. Bob is survived by his two daughters, Danielle Bell and Taylor Higgins, and his son William "Ike" Avey. Bob lived to be a mentor and provider for his children. His legacy will live on in them, and his eight grandchildren, Olivia, Isla, Amelia, Una, Aeris, Atlan, Luka and Lennox. Bob is also survived by his younger brother, Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Avey. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and older brother Thomas Avey. Bob was a remarkable man. He was as tough as they come, but he had a soft heart. He carried the weight of life with quiet determination, and underneath the tough exterior was a gentleness that came through in the way he loved his children and deeply cared for the people around him. He carried himself with strength and seriousness and was the kind of person who you knew could handle anything. He was sharp, thoughtful, and deeply intelligent. He loved sports, arguing about politics and being outdoors. He particularly loved camping, the kind where you cook food over a fire and forego the tent to sleep under the stars. He will forever be loved and remembered by his family, friends, and associates. Memorial services will be held later this year in Sierra Vista, AZ.