Robert Chesley Couch

Robert Chesley Couch (DaddyBob to his family), a beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather, died at age 93 on December 2, 2023, after a courageous battle against old age. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He will always be remembered for his big welcoming smile, positive personality, kindness to others, and the appreciation for a good joke!
Bob was born in Troy, Alabama on September 23, 1930, the second son of James Joshua Couch and Margaret White Couch. He grew up in Dothan, AL while attending Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, GA where he completed his Junior ROTC and upon graduation he entered the Alabama Polytechnic Institute now Auburn University in Auburn, AL where he received a degree in Pre-Med as well as completing his Senior ROTC. At graduation he received his commission in the U.S. Air Force Reserve as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Medical Service Corps.
During his third week at Auburn, Bob met his beautiful bride and lovely wife of 67 years, Barbara Allen Joyce of Mobile, AL. They were married on September 3, 1952. Bob was called into active duty of the Air Force in 1953 and after completing his tour of duty, Bob attended Georgia State University and received his Masters Degree in Hospital Administration. His first position as Hospital Administrator was at the Cherokee County Hospital in Centre, AL after which in 1959 he accepted the position of President of the Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville, TN where he remained for the next 34 years until retirement in 1993. In 1989 the Tennessee Hospital Association awarded him the Distinguished Service award. Bob was a three-time president of the Mid-East Tennessee Hospital District, served three terms as a board member of the Tennessee Hospital Association, and was a member of the American Hospital Association.
Bob continued his patriotic duty and served 30 years in the U.S. Air Force Reserves retiring in 1983 as a Colonel. In 197 I as a Lt. Colonel he was awarded the Chief Medical Service Corps Badge of meritorious service as a civilian by the U.S. Air Force Reserves.
Being a part of the community was very important to Bob who was an active member of the American Red Cross and Chamber of Commerce as well as served as President of each: the Exchange Club, Lions Club, Rotary Club, and the United Fund.
After retirement, Bob became a founding board member of the Cumberland County 911 District serving 21 years and was inducted into the Tennessee 911 Hall of Honor in 2012.
Bob and his family were active members of the First Methodist Church in Crossville for 52 years.
He enjoyed singing and was a member of the choir as well as working on or chairing a multitude of committees including the Staff Parish Relations Committee and the Administrative Board. His love for his family was only out shown by his love for God. His faith was very important to him. 1n 2011,
Bob and Barbara moved to Rutland Place Retirement Community in Mt. Juliet, TN to be near children and grandchildren. There they became active members of Grace United Methodist Church.
A true highlight of his retirement as well as his marriage was traveling over 77,000 miles with Barbara in their motorhome to each of the United States and providences of Canada.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, his sweet wife Barbara, his brother James Joshua Couch, Jr., and son-in-law Joseph Webb McLeary. Surviving family members include four daughters, Joyce Couch McLeary, West Palm Beach, FL, Gayle Couch McMillan, Talladega, AL, Leslie Couch Gibson, Martin, GA, and Karen Couch Tucker, Mt. Juliet, TN. "DaddyBob" was immensely loved by his twelve grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
A private graveside memorial service was officiated by longtime friend Brother Jerry Mayo on December 8, 2023 at Crossville City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial donations be made to the donor's favorite charity.