Bob Pharris

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Bro. Bob Pharris, a beloved pillar of the Cookeville community, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. Born on July 18, 1943, in Cookeville, Tennessee, Bob dedicated his life to serving others both in his professional endeavors and personal interactions.

For over 35 years, Bob served as a Baptist pastor, dedicating himself to numerous local congregations including Verble, Nash Grove, Rocky Point, Wilhite, Baxter First, Eastwood, Dodson Branch, Cherry Creek and Brotherton. His commitment to guiding and nurturing his community was evident in every sermon and every pastoral visit. His involvement did not cease with retirement, as he remained an active member of Nash Grove Baptist Church.

Bob also served his community as a mail carrier with the United States Postal Service, a role he cherished for more than three decades. As a testament to his dedication and service he received an award for one million safe driving miles.

Bob was renowned for his great sense of humor and his gift of storytelling, always able to share a tale that suited any occasion. He had a profound love for farming and found joy in helping others, characteristics that were deeply woven into the fabric of his being. 

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Carolyn Randolph Pharris; his son, Kerry Pharris and his wife Sara; his daughter, April Howard and her husband Brian; his sister-in-law, Clara Pharris; his grandson, Adam Pharris and his wife Sheri; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Preston, Millie, and Betsy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Flossie Flatt Pharris, as well as his brothers and sister-in-law, Bill Pharris, Don and Carol Pharris.

A graveside service will be held in his honor at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 7 at Double Springs Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cookeville/Putnam County Animal Shelter, www.cookeville-tn.gov/161/Animal-Shelter; St. Jude’s Children's Hospital, www.stjude.org; American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org; or American Heart Association, www.heart.org

The Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.