Robert A. "Bob" Welborn

August 2, 1929 - April 5, 2016

Robert A. “Bob” Welborn, of DeRidder, Louisiana received that which he had faithfully pursued, stepping into the city “whose builder and maker is God”, Tuesday, April 5, 2016.  He was a man of honor, setting standards of character, integrity and honesty, that would challenge any that would observe.  Bob was born into a pioneering family in Dry Creek, Louisiana on August 2, 1929.  He was the second of three children and the son of Solomon J. “Tobe” Welborn and Lois Hanchey Welborn.

Bob attended DeRidder High School where he participated in athletics and served as team captain in both football and basketball.  He graduated in 1947 and attended Northwestern State University. Following his sense of patriotic duty, Bob joined the US Marine Corps in 1950 and was assigned to Parris Island, South Carolina and Brookland Navy Yard.  He later served a two-year tour of duty at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where he earned the rank of Sergeant, and thereafter in Quantico, Virginia.  Bob was honorably discharged in 1953 after serving 3 years and was recognized with the National Defense Service Award.

After returning to DeRidder, Bob worked for BECI as a lineman.  In September 1954, Bob met and married the love of his life, Jodell Anderson and they began a journey together that saw many life accomplishments.  The most valuable being their family and their devotion to the word of God.  Soon after they married, Bob began R.A. Welborn, Inc. which was the first company in Beauregard Parish to specialize in re-clearing right-of-way for utility companies.  The company also provided services in land clearing and pond building.  After 32 years in business, Bob’s son, Kraig, purchased the business and continues his father’s legacy today as Welborn Tree Service, Inc. Upon retiring from R.A. Welborn, Inc., Bob began a retirement career with the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Department for the next 15 years, retiring a second time at the age of 80. Bob contributed to the stability and growth of Beauregard Parish through his volunteerism and leadership.  He was the first Beauregard Public Works Director, was elected Ward #3 School Board Member in 1974, and served on the South Beauregard Water District where he was President of the Board.

For the past 60 years, Bob and Jodell served in many varied ministries ranging from teaching individuals bible studies in their home to educational classes at their local church.  During this time, Bob held the positions of Director and Vice President on the church board of directors, was a member of the church Trustee Board and as a current member and Elder of Grace Church of Deridder and served as Coordinator of the Adult Education Department. Bob’s commitment to bible study and teaching led him to be well versed in theology, traditions, and texts.  Because of his understanding of the Bible, he was a much sought after resource for many students of the Word until his passing.

Family members who preceded Bob in death are his parents, Solomon James and Lois Hanchey Welborn; brother, William “Bill” Welborn; and sister, Frankie Welborn Rudd.  Bob was preceded in death by his wife 40 days prior on February 25, 2016.  Those remaining to honor his legacy include his daughter, Karen Glass (George Lee); son, Kraig Welborn (Karlie); grandchildren, Dana Welborn, Steven Ross (Jessica), Kari Welborn Midgett (Kenneth) and Lee Glass; great grandchildren, Gabriella, Noah, Mia, Khi, Arielle, Karaline, and Farrah.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 7, 2016 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm at Grace Church in DeRidder, Louisiana.  Funeral services will be Friday, April 8, 2016 at 11:00am at Grace Church.  Burial will follow at Hopewell Cemetery in DeRidder, Louisiana.  Rev. George Lee Glass and Rev. Jimmy Glass will officiate.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace Helping Hands (Senior Food Ministry) or to a ministry of your personal choice.