Bobby J. Donaldson, age 92, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026. 

Born to Arthur Donaldson and Ruth Jernigan Donaldson on January 7, 1934, in Crockett County, Tennessee, between the towns of Bells and Alamo. Bobby began life in a humble two-room sharecropper's house. Those early years shaped the values he carried throughout his life-hard work, perseverance, humility, and a deep love for family. 

At the age of 11, Bobby moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he would spend most of his life. He graduated from Memphis Technical High School (Memphis Tech) in 1952. Following high school, he attended the Memphis School of Commerce for two years and completed four years of electrical training, laying the foundation for a successful career in the electrical trade. 

Bobby was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 474 for more than 30 years. He built a distinguished career with Memphis City Schools, where he worked for 30 years as an electrician, electrical foreman, and supervisor before retiring. He was respected by colleagues and friends alike for his skill, leadership, and unmatched work ethic.

At the age of 20, Bobby worked as a bouncer at two well-known Memphis establishments. The Cotton Club and Danny's, where his strong presence and outgoing personally made him a familiar figure in the community.

A gifted athlete, Bobby was a two-time Golden Gloves Champion, earning respect throughout the boxing community for his determination and discipline. His accomplishments in the sport led to his induction into the Memphis Boxing Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to boxing in the Mid-South.

His love for the sport continued long after his competitive years ended. Bobby devoted many years to mentoring young athletes as a boxing coach at Jackson Avenue Baptist Church and with the Memphis Police Department, where he coached for approximately 10 to 12 years. Through his coaching and mentorship, he positively influenced countless young people, teaching not only boxing skills but also discipline, confidence, respect, and perseverance.

Known for his kind heart, quiet strength, and unwavering loyalty, Bobby touched the lives of many throughout his 92 years. He valued family above all else and found great joy in helping others and sharing his wisdom and life experiences.

Bobby leaves behind his first wife, Jimmie Nell Donaldson; his daughter, Vickie Bloodworth (70) of Crawfordsville, Arkansas, and her husband, Joe Bloodworth (72); his son, Ricky Donaldson (64) of Memphis, Tennessee, and his wife, Lisa Ann Donaldson (65); and his stepdaughter, Sarah Walls (56) of Memphis, Tennessee, and David Walls (58) of Munford, Tennessee.

He was a proud grandfather to Christi Donaldson (41); Heather Childress (34) and her husband, Jay Childress; Jennifer Latham (45) and her husband, Drew Latham (40); Joe Bloodworth III (42); Gina Lipford (34) and her husband, Dalton Lipford (30); Kelly Blakenship (30) and her husband, Beau Blakenship (30); Matthew Walls (29) and his wife, Amber Walls (31); and Eden Walls (22).

Bobby was also blessed with several great-grandchildren, Conner (21), Chloe (19), Kacie (13), Avery (11), Kevin (10), Caleb (10), and Eli (5), who brought him tremendous pride and joy throughout his life.

He also welcomed his great-great-granddaughter, Aurora (4).

He is also survived by his sister, Bettye Jo Dedmon (97) of Memphis, Tennessee, with whom he shared a lifetime of cherished memories and family bonds.

Bibby was preceded in death by parents and his son, Mike Donaldson, and daughter-in-law, Jewell Donaldson; his beloved second wife of 40 years, Lillian Donaldson; his brothers, Benny Donaldson and Lester Donaldson; and his sisters, Helen, Elizabeth and Ruby Joyce.

From his humble beginnings in rural West Tennessee to his accomplishments as an electrician, supervisor, Golden Gloves champion, Hall of Fame boxer, coach, mentor, and family man, Bobby's life was a remarkable example of determination, service, and love. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the young people he mentored, and the many friends whose lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Forever Loved, Forever Remembered, and Forever Missed.