Bobby Gene Garris Sr.

Bobby Gene Garris Sr., age 85, of Grifton, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in his home on the morning of October 8th, 2025, surrounded by love and comfort.
Born in 1940 in the small community of Calico, North Carolina, Bobby was the beloved son of Bonney Heber Garris and Daisy Wilson Garris. He grew up on a farm where he formed his work ethic and toughness-traits that would define him throughout his life.
Bobby was one of 11 children. His brothers and sisters Walter, Linwood, Agnes, George, Bonnie, Jake, Dorothy, Billy, and infant sister Mary Louise all preceded him in death. He is survived by his sister Hazel Hoban of Charleston, SC, sister-in-law Magdaline Garris of Grifton, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Bobby was known by all as a man with a quick wit, a wry smile, and a wave to anyone he passed by. He had a remarkable memory and a wealth of knowledge-once he learned something, he never forgot it. He treated everyone he met with dignity and respect, no matter their occupation or how much money they had. He never met a stranger-only friends he hadn't known yet. Whether you'd known him for decades or just five minutes, you might soon find yourself gifted a piece-or even a Tupperware container full-of his famous homemade fudge.
Bobby loved his family and his extended racing family deeply. A two-time State Champion and NHRA National Event–winning drag racer alongside his brother Billy, Bobby made his mark on the track in the 1960s and 1970s with the legendary Red Baron and Red Baron II cars. His competitive spirit later led him into kart racing, where he spent more than 50 years-racing well into his fifties and mentoring countless racers along the way. He was loved, respected, and affectionately called "Papa Bear" by his racing family.
Bobby loved his Lord, Jesus Christ, and often offered a small Jesus figurine to anyone he met-a simple but powerful gesture of his faith and love for others.
He is survived by his seven children, Bobby Jr. (Theressa) of Florence, SC; Barbara Smith (Jeffrey) of Kinston; Jerry (Tammy) of Ayden; David (Nicole) of Greenville; Pamela "Pam" Vinson (Scott) of Maury; Joseph "Joe" (Aileen) of Elizabethtown, KY; and Etta "Beth" Kirkland of Hookerton.
Bobby was blessed with 15 grandchildren-Jessica, Christopher, and Caroline Garris; Brandi (Daniel) Hunnings; Nicole (Josh) Vinson; Brandon (Kelsey) Garris; Cullen (Hannah) and Brinlee Garris; Austin (Shaniece) and Gabriel Vinson; Jai, AJ, and Aaron Garris; and Dava and Ramsie Kirkland-and 7 great-grandchildren: Caleb, Miller-Grey, Cannon, Eloise, Addyson, Jamison, and Lainey. The family eagerly awaits the arrival of a great-great-grandchild (Caleb & Marissa) in early 2026.
We are especially grateful to Buddy Smith and his son Kaleb, who was like a grandson to Bobby. Over the past 16 years, they raced karts with him and shared a deep bond through their love of the sport. Special thanks are also extended to Jenna, his hospice nurse, for her compassionate care.
A visitation will be held at Farmer Funeral Home in Ayden, NC, on Thursday, October 16th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will take place at Farmer Funeral Home Chapel in Ayden, NC, on Friday, October 17th, at 11:00 AM. Following the service, Bobby will be laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Estates in Grifton.
Bobby's legacy of kindness, faith, and generosity will live on in the countless lives he touched.