Bobby Dean Haley

Bobby Dean Haley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away suddenly on August 25, 2025 at the age of 88. Born and raised in Thayer, Missouri, Bobby lived a life full of love, devotion, and quiet strength-a true reflection of his deep faith and humble character.

He was born to John E and Dollie (Kirby) Haley, one of six children in a close-knit family. Bobby's upbringing in southern Missouri instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for family, faith, and the outdoors.

In 1960, Bobby was drafted into the United States Army, where he served honorably for two years before being discharged. After returning home, he began a long and steady career as a Maintenance Technician for the Frisco Railway, which later became Burlington Northern and is now BNSF. Bobby, known for his dedication and strong work ethic, remained with the railroad until his retirement.

Bobby was a man of the land-an avid outdoorsman who especially loved turkey hunting. His son Jon proudly called him "one of the best turkey hunters in the United States." Whether fishing a quiet stream or walking the woods, Bobby found joy in God's creation and shared that passion with family and friends alike.

A faithful member of Splitlog Baptist Church in Goodman, Missouri, Bobby lived by the values of kindness, generosity, and grace. His journey was marked by faith, and his legacy is one of devotion to the Lord. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family, who were the heart of his world.

On October 18, 2004, Bobby married Shirley Auman Williams in Williford, Arkansas. Together, they shared 20 years of marriage filled with laughter, companionship, and unwavering love.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Shirley; his children: Jon Haley and wife Sandy of Pineville, Missouri; and Cindy Paladino and husband Michael of Rogers, Arkansas. He is also survived by his wife's children, whom he loved as his own: Jed Williams and wife Jen of Savage, Minnesota; and Westley Williams and wife Karla of Aberdeen, Maryland.

He was a proud "Grandpa Bobby" to Josh (Kayci) Haley of Edmond, Oklahoma; Jessica (Chris) Delzell of Noel, Missouri; Carson and Haley Paladino of Rogers, Arkansas; and a cherished great-grandfather to Walker Mae, Dean, Emma, and Olivia.

He is also survived by his siblings: Claude (Doris) Haley of Bourbon, Missouri; Bill (Clara) Haley of Koshkonong, Missouri; Donna Moeller of Girard, Illinois, and many nieces and nephews.

Bobby was preceded in death by his first wife, LaVera Joyce, who passed on August 6, 2003, his son, Phillip Duane Haley, and two sisters, Marylou Hendricks and Roberta Goetting.

Bobby will be remembered as a kind-hearted man who loved deeply, gave generously, and lived faithfully. His legacy lives on in the stories told around family tables, in the footsteps through the woods, and in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held at Clark Funeral Home in Neosho, Missouri one hour prior to the funeral where friends may call on the Haley family from 1:00-2:00 pm on Thursday, August 28, 2025. A Funeral Service to honor Bobby's life will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Clark Funeral Home in Neosho, Missouri. Trent Cook will officiate. A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Thayer Cemetery in Thayer, Missouri, where Bobby will be laid to rest with Full Military Honors provided by the Missouri Military Honors Program. Darrell Mitchell will officiate.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Clark Funeral Homes, Neosho, Missouri.

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