Bobby Ray David

Bobby Ray David, age 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. His passing was both graceful and peaceful and left an indelible mark on the world through his positive influence. Bob was born on November 29, 1935 to Jewell and Samuel David in Alpharetta, Georgia. Bob was a beloved husband, father, son, and grandfather as well as warm friend and helpful neighbor to so many. Each and every day, Bob lived his life fully and with intention.

Bob was a go-getter from the beginning of his long and successful life. He grew up in the Crabapple community which is now Alpharetta when the area was still farm country. He was valedictorian of Milton High School class of 1953, editor of the yearbook, Voted Most Likely to Succeed, president of the 4H club, president of the glee club, treasurer of the drama club, and an accomplished athlete in both baseball and basketball. He was always committed to doing everything at 100% and his drive and competitive spirit always took him far. Bob attended Georgia State University and received his bachelor's degree in business administration. After college, he also served his country in the United States Air Force Reserves from 1957-1963.

He met and married the love of his life Betty Louise Huguley David on September 9, 1961. They were happily married for 63 years. Together they raised three children- Ray, Coleman and Catherine. He missed Bett daily since her passing last year, and we share much peace that they are together again in heaven.

Bob started working with IBM in 1954 during college and continued a successful career that led this lifetime 'IBMer' to stints in Tallahassee, Florida, Greenville, South Carolina, White Plains, New York and back to Atlanta, Georgia as an integral part of the IBM Education Division. He played a significant role in forming and modeling the Skill Dynamics education segment of IBM. Bob remained with IBM for 37 years before retiring at age 55. Work took him to Australia, Hong Kong, London and more but never kept him from being committed to his family as he coached his three children's sports, served on the high school booster club and served on the Gant Quarters neighborhood board and supported community activities.

He was active in his Sunday school class at the United Methodist Church of Marietta and participated in the church choir for decades. His bass voice will be remembered and missed. He was an avid runner and scratch golfer and always met his goal to finish Peachtree Road Race in fewer minutes than his age. He achieved a hole-in-one and a senior club championship in his golfing career and the hole-in-one certificate proudly hangs in his office today.

Bob was driven in every facet of his life. He was the ultimate provider, coach, champion, choir member and fixer of all things. Most importantly he was humble and kind. We believe Tim McGraw modeled his song titled 'Humble and Kind' after Bob. He was a natural leader, encouraged his children to be involved and led by example. His work ethic and get up and go attitude never faltered. It will be his steadfast kindness and thoughtfulness that will be most remembered and missed by all of his family and many friends.

Bob is survived by his children, Ray David, Coleman David and Catherine David McKemie (Clay); five grandchildren: Madison McKemie, Payton McKemie, Andrew David, Abigail David and Aaron David.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 24 at 11:00 am at the Roswell Funeral Home to celebrate Bob's life and honor his contributions to our community. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the 11:00am service and lunch and visitation will follow the service. All events will be held at the Roswell Funeral Home located at 950 Mansell Road in Roswell.