Bobby Bear Obituary

Bobby Ray Bear

February 19, 2025

KINGSPORT - Bobby Ray Bear 81, of Kingsport went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. He was born in Newport, TN to the late Rev. Jessee Jack and Mary Ruth Bear. Bobby moved to Kingsport as a child and lived in the area all his life. He was a graduate of Dobyns- Bennet High School and served his country in the U.S. Army. Bobby worked for TN Eastman as a Chemical Operations Supervisor. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant son, Scotty Ray Bear and brother, Rev. Clarence Bear; brothers-in-law, John Colley and Richard Colley; nephew, Jason Miles Colley.

Survivors include his loving wife, Margaret Colley Bear; daughter, MeLissa Riddle and husband Mike; grandsons, Hunter White and girlfriend Haley, Cameron White and wife Samantha, and Mason Riddle; great-grandchildren, Kaia White, Liam Bledsoe and Haley Ganious; brother, Phil Bear and wife Diane; brothers-in-law, Stony Colley and wife Brenda, and Holiday "Pedro" Colley and wife Eva ; sisters-in-law, Judy Colley, Margaret Colley, and Jean Bear; several special nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews; along with a host of friends and extended family.

The family will receive friends from 5pm to 6pm on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport. A memorial service will follow with Rev. Jack Edwards officiating.

A military graveside service will be conducted at 1pm on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at East Lawn Memorial Park with Honors conducted by the American Legion Hammond Post #3/265. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 12:50pm.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.cartertrent.com.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Bear family.