Bobby Gene Claybrooks

Bobby Gene Claybrooks, 92, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at North River Health Campus.
Bobby was born in Henderson, Kentucky on August 2, 1931 to the late Charles and Amanda (King) Claybrooks. Bobby served in the United States Army during the Korean War where he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. He went on to work as a tow boat pilot for 45 years. Bobby loved his job and working on the river. Early in his career, Bobby worked for Dravo Corporation - a highly respected shipbuilding company. He was with the company for 25 years. Bobby was also instrumental in the development of the Newburgh Lock and Dam. He was a proud, 75 year member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 181. Outside of work, Bobby enjoyed camping, playing cards, and was an avid IU basketball fan. When Bobby's sons were growing up, he loved watching them excel at wrestling. Later in life, as a grandfather, Bobby loved attending his grandchildren's sporting events. Family meant everything to Bobby. He cherished anytime he could have all his family together - especially at their annual family fish fry. Bobby was an exemplary father, grandfather, "poppy", and friend who will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Bobby is survived by his daughter, Theresa Campbell (Wesley) of Evansville, IN; sons, Clayton Claybrooks (Jackie), James Claybrooks (Donna), Bobby Claybrooks (Cathy), and Bruce Claybrooks (Kitty), all of Evansville, IN; sister, Fanny Lisenbee (Larry) of Evansville, IN; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Shorty.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Mary Claybrooks, Barbara Fitzgerald, Donnie Claybrooks, Roy Claybrooks, Betty Therber, and Michael Claybrooks.
A celebration of Bobby's life will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at Browning Funeral Home, 738 Diamond Ave., Evansville, IN 47711, with Father John Boeglin officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery where the Retired Veterans Memorial Club and the United States Army will perform military honors. Those unable to attend may livestream Bobby's service by going to https://www.browningfuneral.com/live-stream/newpage.
Friends may visit from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Browning Funeral Home and again from 9:00 am until service time on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at Browning Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Vanderburgh Humane Society, PO Box 6711, Evansville, IN 47719-6711.
Condolences may be made online at www.browningfuneral.com.