Robert Pullins

Robert Gene Pullins BRISTOL, Tenn. Robert Gene Pullins, age 74, died Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012, at Bristol Regional Medical Center. He was born in Gallipolis, Ohio to Eddie and Sylvia Pullins on Feb. 23, 1937. In 1972, Bob relocated with his wife, Virginia, and three daughters to work at Purity Bakery in Bristol, Tenn. In 1980, Bob changed careers and owned several Servpro franchises in the Bristol area. Bob loved this area and the opportunities he had to own livestock, grow an orchard, and have a large garden. Bob was a member at First Baptist Church in Bristol, Va. since 1973. He served as deacon, Sunday school superintendent, coach of the men's softball team and originator of the children's christmas party. Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years, Virginia; his daughters, Terri Ellis and special friend, Kerry Cook, Becky Pullins, Nancy Pullins; sister, Cheryl Inafuku and husband, Randy of Hawaii; brothers, Richard "Betty" Pullins of Ohio, Bruce Pullins of Bristol, Rick Pullins and wife, Katie, of West Virginia; the joys of his life, grandsons, Michael and Tiffany Shelton; Luke Luttrell; and granddaughters, Beth Shelton, Fallon and Scott Johnson, and Logan Luttrell; and the very special joys of his life, great-granddaughters, Zoe Johnson, Sophie Johnson, and Millie Shelton. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. For many years, Bob has volunteered at the United Coal Soup Kitchen in Bristol, Va. and it was his dream to establish a similar soup kitchen in Bristol, Tenn. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to First Baptist Ministry Mall designated to the establishment of this much needed soup kitchen. A celebration of his life will be held Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Bristol, Va. with Gene Eller officiating. Prior to his death, Bob arranged for his body to be donated to the Quillen School of Medicine in Johnson City, Tenn. It was his wish to in some way help those who help others. The family will receive friends at First Baptist prior to the service on the 23rd from 4 to 6 p.m. in Rosser Hall.