Bobby Lee McElyea, 87, of Maypearl, Texas, passed away on March 2, 2026.

Bob was born on May 24, 1938, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to John and Erma McElyea. His family soon moved to Tucson, Arizona, where Bob was raised until he joined the Air Force at age 17 and was stationed in England for two years. After returning to Arizona, Bob raised his family in Phoenix until he remarried and moved to Texas.

After his time in the Air Force, Bob tried multiple career paths before deciding that being a truck driver was well suited for him. He was a Teamsters member for 42 years while working at Westward Transfer for six years, ICX for 18 years, and then the U.S. Postal Service for 18 years before his retirement in 2003.

Bob enjoyed supporting his kids by coaching Little League baseball, and he was always present at his grandchildren’s various events. He also enjoyed local politics and served on the Maypearl City Council.

Bob is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 48 years; son Russell McElyea & Peggy; stepdaughter Carrie Sepert & Billy; grandchildren Janine, Jeremy, Trevor, Mollie, Brazos, Christopher, and Marissa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Warren; his stepson, Robert Morris; his sisters, Liz, Janelle, and Marie; and his brother, Billy.

A gathering to honor Bob’s life will be held at Maypearl Cemetery on Friday, March 6, at 2:00pm, followed by a visitation with family and friends at the Maypearl Methodist Church Sunday School building. Friends and family are welcome.