Robert Wayne Shope

Robert “Bob” Shope, 86, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, in the early hours of May 5, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and an unwavering work ethic. 

Robert was born at home in Rockford, Tennessee in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. From an early age, he learned the lifelong values of selflessness, responsibility, and perseverance through hard work, delivering newspapers, running errands for his mother, walking his sisters to school, and supporting friends and family. Robert built an extraordinary career as a Nurse Anesthetist. For fifty years, he was known for his quality of care, quick wit, and friendliness. Bob was an outstanding athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and baseball. He was later inducted into St. Lawrence Central High School’s Hall of Fame. A lifelong Dodgers fan, he tried out for the Dodgers in 1957 at just 17 years old, a day he remembered as one of the best of his life, because he had the chance to play alongside his heroes. Robert remained a devoted sports fan throughout his life, always loyal to the Dodgers and especially the Tennessee Volunteers. Robert Shope was a man who preferred doing over saying. He wasn’t a man of many words, but when he spoke, people listened. 

His support was quiet and steady, and he was never shy to lend a helping hand. His family never went without and always knew they could rely on him. In his free time, he loved traveling, spending time with family and friends, and studying World War II history. He saw faraway parts of the world, yet always remained grounded in the people and places he loved the most. His favorite destination was Tennessee, where he loved visiting his grandfather's Church and other familiar places from his childhood. Robert enjoyed the simple pleasures in life that he returned to often, like a dinner at a favorite restaurant, a Krispy Kreme donut, or a Clint Eastwood movie. Above all, Robert shared a long and loving relationship of sixty-nine years with his wife, Betty Shope. Who remained a constant presence and warm anchor throughout his life. 

Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; his daughters, Bobbie Shope (Mike Johnson) and Susan Wroten (George Wroten); His grandchildren Victoria Worley, Robert Worley (Mary Grace Littlefield), William Bullock, Rebecca Bullock, Jessica Bullock; and his sisters, Diane Hazen and Paulette Lantry. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra Jean Bullock; his parents, Paul and Mildred Shope; his brother, Stanley Shope, and many other beloved family members and friends. Robert will be remembered as a truly devoted husband, Daddy and Grandpa, whose life was defined not by words, but by action. His steady strength and devotion will be felt for generations.

 A celebration of Robert’s life will be held at a later date