Bobby Gene Royals, 82, passed away peacefully on March 30,2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.
Bobby was born in Coffee County on September 18, 1943, to Carey and Annie Maude Johns Royals. He was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord and spent time in his Bible every day.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Carey Royals Jr., Hazel Musgrove, Betty Joyce Taylor, Melvin Royals, Jackie Royals, Roy Royals and by his beloved daughter Tina Marie Royals Padgett.
Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Tresa Laycock Royals; his children, Walter (Heidi) Royals and Susan (Jim) Gilbert. Nine grandchildren, four great – grandchildren and his siblings, Almeda Anderson, Janice Smith and Ray Royals.
Bobby dearly loved the outdoors and was happiest when he was fishing, hunting, or simply enjoying God’s creation. More than anything, he loved being with his family. He had a gift for telling stories, the kind that could keep everyone gathered around listening and laughing, and he was well known for his famous catchphrase “almost!”. Those who knew him will always smile when they hear that word.
He will be remembered as a loving husband, daddy, pawpaw, brother and friend. A good man who loved his family well, trusted the Lord and found joy in his life’s simple blessings. His memory will live on in the stories told and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A celebration of Bobby’s life will be held at Sturgeon Creek Primitive Baptist Church, 138 Sturgeon Creek Road, Fitzgerald, Georgia, 31750, on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Paulk Funeral Home, Fitzgerald, is in charge of arrangements.