James Robert McVey

James Robert "Bob" McVey, 81, went to be with Jesus on February 17, 2026. Born on September 2, 1944, Bob lived a life marked by devotion-to his faith, his family, and to the simple but sacred act of caring for others.
Bob was preceded in death by: his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Connie Lee Lillian (Purchase) McVey; his father, James Joyce McVey; his mother, Florene (Sadler) McVey; and his sisters, Pearl McVey and Helen (McVey) Smith.
He is survived by: his children, Steven and Samantha (Coe) McVey, Elizabeth (McVey) and Philip Poole, Jonathon McVey and Deborah McVey. He was a proud grandfather to: Drew and Kendra McVey, Jackie Poole, and Rebekah (McVey) and Tyler Thompson, as well as great grandchildren, Melea, Noah, and Zoey. He is also survived by: his brothers, Floyd and Susan (Bakewell) McVey, and Kenneth McVey; numerous nieces, nephews; and several "double" cousins.
At just 19 years old, Bob married his sweetheart, Connie, beginning a partnership that would span six decades. Together they built a home known for its warmth and generosity. Connie would set the table, and Bob would make sure it was filled with good food. To be loved by Bob was to be offered a meal, a chair at the table, and a place to rest your head. Their hospitality extended to family, friends, and church members alike-especially those who found themselves in difficult seasons.
Bob's love for family extended beyond bloodlines. For over 50 years, he and Connie shared life side by side with Sam and Laura Teed, raising their families together in a bond that felt more like kin than friendship. Juanita, Rebekah, and Timothy were loved as his own and were central to countless Christmas, Thanksgivings, and birthday celebrations.
Through marriage, Bob was also warmly embraced as brother by the large Purchase clan, where many knew him simply and affectionately as "Uncle Robert."
A hardworking and steady presence, Bob worked at Diamond Reo before dedicating 30 years to General Motors. He was a faithful member of Woodview Nazarene Church, where he found deep community and lasting friendships in his church family.
Bob delighted in the simple joys of life. He loved the music of the Bill Gaither Trio, singing along with familiar hymns. He enjoyed fishing - especially in Michigan - even if, by his own admission, he wasn't particularly good at it. He treasured family road trips, loading the station wagon with kids, bologna sandwiches, and heading off to Canada and destinations across the United States.
Every Christmas season, he and Connie baked cookies together and shared them generously, spreading sweetness wherever they went.
In his later years, Bob found friendship and welcome at Smokey Bones, where the staff treated him like a local celebrity and made him feel at home. The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and dignity shown to him there.
Bob consistently lived his life taking care of others, sometimes even at the expense of his own comfort. His legacy is one of steadfast love, open doors, full tables, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and joyfully reunited with the love of his life.
Service information is listed below.