Bobby Joe "Joey" Galyan, Jr Jr

In Loving Memory of Bobby Joe "Joey" Galyan, Jr.

July 6, 1960 – July 23, 2025

Bobby Joe Galyan, Jr., lovingly known as "Joey," passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the age of 65, after a courageous and faith-filled battle with cancer. While his time on this earth has ended, his legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to others lives on in every heart he touched.

Born in Gastonia, North Carolina, on July 6, 1960, Joey was the cherished son of the late Ruby Avenelle Shaver. In 1966, his family made their home in Zephyrhills, Florida, where he grew up and later graduated from Zephyrhills High School in 1978, proudly wearing the Bulldog jersey as a member of the football team.

Soon after graduation, Joey answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force, where he was stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina. He served with pride and integrity for six years before returning home to begin a new chapter.

Joey's professional journey led him through various roles, including with Pepsi Cola and Martha White Foods, and in landscaping-but it wasn't until the age of 35 that he discovered his true calling: teaching. A proud graduate of Southeastern University in Lakeland, he earned his degree in Varying Exceptionalities and began teaching in the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program, where he would pour his heart and soul into shaping young lives. His career took him from Hudson Elementary, to Woodland Elementary, and finally back to his alma mater-Zephyrhills High School-where he spent the last seven years of his life doing what he loved most.

Joey's passion for teaching was nothing short of extraordinary. He worked through holidays, summers, and breaks-always giving more than was ever expected. He found deep joy and purpose in his students, and even as he battled cancer beginning in 2019, he continued to show up with heart, grit, and a smile that lit up any classroom.

Beyond the classroom, Joey's love for young people extended to the field. For over three decades, he officiated football games-youth on Saturdays, middle school on Tuesdays, JV on Thursdays, and varsity on Fridays. He was respected as a top-tier official and, even when cancer sidelined him from the field, he took his place in the press box, operating the clock and mentoring the next generation of referees with sharp wit and high standards.

He also coached at the East Pasco YMCA and served as the varsity volleyball coach at Zephyrhills High School. Though wins were few, Joey found victory in the relationships he built and the moments of joy and resilience-especially on cancer recognition nights, when his players rallied and celebrated his fight.

Joey was a devoted husband, proud father, and beloved brother. He leaves behind his loving wife of 25 years, Lisa, whom he first met through family friends. The two became soulmates, marrying in 2000 and building a beautiful life filled with laughter, partnership, and deep love. He was the proud father of Avyanna and Jarrin, who carry forward his warmth, strength, and kindness.

He is also survived by his sisters, Tonda Coyne and Jan Galyan, and his brother, Phil Shaver-each of whom held a special place in his heart and shared in his life's many adventures.

Joey's passing leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he shaped as a teacher, mentor, coach, official, and friend. His passion, his humor, and his unshakable belief in doing good for others will forever inspire those lucky enough to have known him.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, July 26 at Crystal Springs Worship Center, 2155 Paul Buchman Highway, with arrangements entrusted to Hodges Family Funeral Home in Dade City. The viewing is from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the church followed by the funeral service. Interment will be at Oakside Cemetery, First Street, Zephyrhills following the service.

Rest easy, Joey. You have run the race with grace, and the community you so deeply loved will never forget you.