September 20, 1931 – September 17, 2024 Bobby Dean Kolwyck Sr., age 92, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024, in Burleson, Texas, with his family by his side. Born on September 20, 1931, near Humboldt, Tennessee, to Annie B. Kolwyck and the late Robert McConnell, Bob lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service. Bob’s journey began in Humboldt, where he met the love of his life, Mary Sunshine Fly Kolwyck, while working at a drive-in theater. Their love story spanned 72 beautiful years, creating a legacy of devotion and family. A proud veteran, Bob served in both the Mississippi National Guard and the Tennessee Army Reserve. His professional career was rooted in the tire and automotive service industry, where he worked for Firestone and Kelly-Springfield Tire Company (Goodyear). Bob’s leadership skills and commitment to excellence propelled him to the role of Retail Sales General Manager at Kelly-Springfield, where he was respected for his ability to raise standards and improve sales in challenging locations. He later owned Mid City Tire & Auto in Memphis, Tennessee, until his retirement. Bob was a dedicated member of Kirby Woods Baptist Church in Germantown, Tennessee, where he served as a Deacon and nurtured his deep faith throughout his life. His unwavering belief in honesty and integrity was a guiding principle that he instilled in his children. He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend. Bob was passionate about numismatics, collecting and grading coins, and sharing his extensive knowledge with others. He and Mary enjoyed spending time with friends and family, celebrating holidays together, and tending to their garden. Bob had a flair for cooking, with several of his recipes published in Taste of Home magazines. A genealogy enthusiast, he diligently traced his family roots and became a historian of his family’s past. Despite facing vision challenges in his later years, Bob found joy in listening to the conversations around him and remained engaged with those he loved. He cherished the simple pleasures of life, including garage sales and spending time in his garage. In addition to his mother, Annie B. Green, and step-father, Idus Green, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary, son Bobby Dean Kolwyck Jr., and his two step-brothers, Donald and Jerry Green. He is survived by his daughter, Diane (Arnold) Miranda; son, Jeffrey Martin Kolwyck; grandchildren, Jared Kolwyck (Kait), Justin Kolwyck, and Alex Miranda; and great-grandchildren, Jameson Kolwyck and Stella Kolwyck. The family invites friends and loved ones to share their condolences, memories, and expressions of sympathy via the Lonestar website where this obituary is listed. In lieu of flowers, Bob would appreciate donations to support research for a cure for Retinitis Pigmentosa. Bobby Dean Kolwyck Sr. will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, integrity, and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.
