J.R. Shoemaker

"Bobby" Shoemaker 72, passed away early Monday morning, Jan. 13, 2014, at a local hospital. Bobby was preceded in death by his mother and father, Vernon and Dema Dodd Shoemaker. Bobby retired from Sothern Railroad after serving over 40 years as a switchman and conductor. His great love was fishing, going to estate sales and flea markets. As a young boy he enjoyed being involved in the 4-H and FFA raising prized "Jersey Cows" with his brother Ronny. He loved to duck hunt with his many friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves behind to cherish his memory one son, Jeff L. Shoemaker; one daughter, Tammy Shoemaker Evans; one brother and sister-in-law, Ronny and Sue Shoemaker; two grandsons, Nick and Bobby Goins; and two great-grandchildren, Schyler and Jaxon Goins and one on the way. He is also survived by one niece, Jennifer (Tod) Miller; one nephew, David (Nikki) Shoemaker; two great-nephews Cole and Layne Shoemaker; aunt and uncle, Bill and Barbara Burn; several cousins; one very special friend, Marlyn Kelley; numerous other extended family members and a host of friends. A celebration of his life is planned for at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014, at Bethel Baptist Church located at 2514 Old Chattanooga Pike in Cleveland, Tenn., with the Rev. James Garner officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 26, from 2 p.m. until the 4 p.m. service time. You are encouraged to share a memory of Bobby and/or your personal condolences with his family by visiting his memorial web page and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home and the Cody family are honored to assist the Shoemaker family with these arrangements.