Bobbie J. Hendrix
Bobbie J. Hendrix, 94, of Chattanooga, joined her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at her residence.
The oldest of nine children, Bobbie was born Tuesday, April 30, 1929, in Rome, Georgia, to the late Willie and Varnar (Haynes) Jones. She accepted Jesus Christ, as her personal Savior, at an early age and continued in that faith until death. Bobbie was a blessed woman of God who shared her blessings generously. Bobbie’s family, friends, students, church, and community all benefitted from her loving, common-sense wisdom and guidance.
Her faith-fueled resilience was an inspiration to all who knew her. Bobbie was a member of Warren Chapel AME Church for many years. In 1996, she joined the fellowship of Orchard Knob Baptist Church where she faithfully served until her departure. During her time at Orchard Knob, she served the following ministries: Sunday School, Bible Study, Women’s Ministry, Usher Ministry, Christian Education, Trustee Wives and Widows, and the Mother’s Board.
Bobbie graduated with the class of 1946 from Rome Main Colored High School in Rome, Georgia. Eighteen years later she matriculated at Tennessee State University in Nashville, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. She began her career in the Chattanooga Public School System as a classroom teacher and guidance counselor. She continued her education at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville where she earned a Master of Science degree in Education in 1979. She was an educator at heart and a lifelong learner. Bobbie retired from Chattanooga Public Schools after 29 years of service.
After her retirement, she and her husband Clifford spent several years traveling the country in their RV. Bobbie served on various boards in the Chattanooga community. She especially enjoyed her work with the Siskin Hospital. She was an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In 2004, she was honored as a Woman of Distinction of Greater Chattanooga. This award is bestowed upon women who set themselves apart through their civic, cultural, philanthropic, human service, environmental and professional contributions to the Chattanooga community. Bobbie loved studying and reading the Bible. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed crossword puzzles, cooking, reading, talking with family and friends and in her younger years riding and training horses.
Bobbie was blessed with a loving family. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Clifford L. Hendrix, Jr. To that union, two children, Anthony and Ellen, were born. The family of four enjoyed many years of shared adventures, creating memories that continue to sustain them. Bobbie was a caring and devoted wife, mother, and friend. Her inviting demeanor, compassionate manner, and welcoming spirit were received genuinely by all who knew her. Her loving, joyful spirit touched many lives.
She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Clifford L. Hendrix, Jr.; parents, Willie and Varnar (Haynes) Jones; sisters, Betty Taylor, Mary Nell Johnson, Doris Maynard, and Eleanor Poteete; brothers, Charles (Sonny) Jones and Warren Jones.
Precious memories linger with her children, Anthony and Ellen; brother, George Jones of San Diego, CA; sister, Janice Jones of Atlanta, GA; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.
Bobbie will lie in state on Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 12:30-5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be Thursday, Oct. 26, at 11 a.m. at Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church, 1734 E. Third Street.
Burial will be in Chattanooga National Cemetery alongside her husband, Dr. Clifford L. Hendrix, Jr.
The funeral service will be live streamed on the church’s website: orchardknob.weebly.com or on Facebook.