Bobby Gene Runyan
Bobby Gene Runyan, 84, of Ooltewah, departed this life and went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, April 25, 2025.
He was a lifelong member of Savannah Methodist Church.
Bobby was a 1958 graduate of Birchwood High School. He joined the Tennessee National Guard in September 1963. He completed his basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and underwent advanced artillery training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He applied to the Officer Candidate School of the Tennessee Guard and was commissioned a second lieutenant. He received his honorable discharge in 1968.
He retired from DuPont after 43 years of service.
He was an exceptional baseball player at Birchwood High School. After graduating, he played for several amateur baseball teams in the area and was selected for all-star teams multiple times. He achieved the remarkable feat of pitching four or more no-hitters. He received an invitation to try out for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Additionally, he coached girl’s Open Commercial League softball alongside the late Sonny Smith, leading their teams to win several tournaments.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Perry Runyan, Sr.; mother, Lillian Savannah Shahan Runyan; brother, James P. Runyan, Jr.; nephew, Scott Edward Runyan.
He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Marcella Jane; step-daughter, Kimberly Raines; sisters, Joyce Seagle (Harold), and Jennie Sue Henderson (Ron); brothers, Pat Steven (Rhonda), and William Earl; as well as nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to Jessica and Hospice of Chattanooga caregivers for their compassion and devotion.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, April 28, at 11 a.m. at New McDonald East View Cemetery, 8004 McDonald Cemetery Road off Snow Hill Road, with Pastor Bobby Brewer officiating. Interment will follow. There will be no visitation at the funeral home.
Share your memories and express condolences at www.turnerfamilyfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are by Turner Funeral Home, Highway 58 Chapel, 423 622-3171.