Robert “Bobby” Feely passed away Thursday June 01, 2017 in his Crystal River, Florida home losing his struggle with pulmonary fibrosis.
Born in Tuscaloosa, AL on August 26, 1942 to Hugh and Margarete Feely. Bobby was raised in Jacksonville and Gainesville, FL. In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his brother Hugh “Eddie” Feely.
Bobby graduated from Gainesville High School in Gainesville, FL. Then enlisted in the US Navy; deployed on the USS NOA. In 1962 Bobby and his shipmates on the NOA made history when they rescued LT Col. John Glenn and his space capsule Friendship 7 from the Atlantic Ocean. Returning from the service Bobby graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Building Construction. He worked for many years with Hubbard Construction in Orlando, FL and with R.B. Baker in Jacksonville, FL. He was passionate about his work and touched the life of everyone he ever met.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 30-years Sally Feely Crystal River, FL; Son John Bratcher Knoxville, TN: Daughters Kellie Bratcher-Goodwin Orlando, FL; Robin Bratcher Lange Holly Springs NC and Papaw to his grandchildren.
Extended family includes many nieces & nephews: Nick Coullias (Karen); Mark Feely (Candace); Aida Coullias (Steve); Kent Feely and Myra Leigh Ellenburg (Keith) and a multitude of great nieces & nephews.
Bob first and foremost was a child of God, loved reading the Bible, was on his eight reading at the time of his death. A loving husband to Sally; great man; awesome story teller, loved Gator football and an avid “gym rat” all his life.
Bobby will be remembered fondly by the multitude of family, friends and peers left behind.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday June 8th, 2017 at MILAM FUNERAL HOME, 311 S. Main ST., Gainesville, FL 32601 352-376-5361 at 11:00 AM. www.milamfh.com
The family request in lieu of flowers donations be made to Hospice of Citrus County & the Nature Coast, 3264 W Audubon Park Path, Lecanto, FL 34461 in Bobby’s name.
