Bobbie Lee Heine, 1933-2008

Dad and I worked on mom's obituary today, and I started pulling together some photos for a display at the memorial service. Friends and family begin arriving in town tomorrow.

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Bobbie Lee Heine was born August 12, 1933, to John Hilliard and Vera (Raye) Felton in Hackleburg, Alabama. She was raised in Russellville, Alabama, along with her two brothers, John and Jim Felton.

A graduate of Auburn University, Bobbie became an elementary school teacher in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama before spending most of her career working with 5th and 6th graders in California.

She met her husband, David, while he was stationed at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. The two were married on November 19, 1961, and moved to Fremont, California a couple of years later.

They lived in Fremont for 35 years, where they raised two sons: John Heine, a professional music therapist living in St. Louis, Missouri, and Scott Heine, a pastor serving in Warrenton, VA.

For most of her life, Bobbie faced the challenges of having Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome. Though this led to countless doctor visits, uncomfortable surgeries, and other complications, Bobbie rarely complained. Instead, she chose to focus on the positive aspects of life’s adventure.

Bobbie loved life, and she loved people. She was quick to make new friends and eager in her generosity toward others. She was enthusiastic about the fellowship and ministry of her church, and enjoyed an affection for sweet hymns of worship. Bobbie also deeply loved her three grandchildren: Benjamin, Elizabeth, and Rebecca.

Dave and Bobbie both retired in 1995. Two years later they relocated to Brentwood, California. They soon turned their love for travel into an opportunity to serve others as part of the Mobile Missionary Assistance Program (MMAPs), and spent many years traveling throughout the United States in their motor home to join others at various construction projects for Christian churches, camps, schools, and more.

Dave and Bobbie moved to Whitney in 2001, and they loved their new life as Texans.

Just a couple of months ago, Bobbie learned that she had stage IV lung cancer. After meeting with different doctors and exploring different options, she chose to pursue treatment at a medical facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma. But God had other plans for her. One night last week, Bobbie passed away quietly before any chemo or other treatments could begin.

Today Bobbie is celebrating in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Though she will be missed, her friends and family look forward to being with her again one day in glory.