Robert Burton Lively III

Robert (Bob) Burton Lively III, age 82, of Rome, Georgia, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by family.
Born on October 5, 1942, in Rome, Bob was the beloved son of the late Robert Burton Lively Jr. and Lillian Hannah Lively. He was preceded in death by his twin sister, Marie, and his older sisters, Delores and Frances.
Bob graduated from East Rome High School, then went on to earn degrees from Shorter College and West Georgia College. He married the love of his life, Lois Lazelle (Zelle) Lester, on July 1, 1967. Together, they raised two sons, Burt (Laurie) and Corey (Andie) Lively, who blessed them with cherished grandchildren: Robbie (Anna), Katie, Logan, Luke, Presley, and Libby.
A lifelong educator and mentor, Bob dedicated his career to teaching special education at Cave Spring High School and Pepperell Middle School. Beyond the classroom, he proudly served as a GHSAA football official for many years, bringing fairness, discipline, and a love of the game to every field he stepped on.
Bob also served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1964 to 1969.
His greatest legacy, however, is his unwavering faith and tireless service to Vann's Valley United Methodist Church, where he was an active member for many decades. He served faithfully on the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee, Finance Committee, and in various other roles that focused on outreach and community care. Bob was a dedicated servant of Jesus Christ who lived out his faith with humility, compassion, and strength.
He found joy in family beach trips to Panama City, cruising, and touring the world with Zelle, and cheering on his beloved Auburn Tigers.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Vann's Valley United Methodist Church on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 3:00 PM, with a fellowship meal to follow in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Vann's Valley United Methodist Church, in honor of Bob's lifelong commitment to service and faith.
Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Mr. Robert (Bob) Burton Lively, III.