Robert "Bobby" Brant

Robert "Bobby" Brant, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 6, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on July 20, 1948, Bobby's journey through life was marked by his unwavering kindness, genuine nature, and a profound love for his family.

From an early age, Bobby demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to his passions. After graduating from Ole Main High School in 1966, he briefly attended Arkansas Tech before diving into a fulfilling career in the automotive industry. His journey began in 1968 as a salesman at Twin City Motors, where he worked under the guidance of his father-in-law. Bobby seamlessly transitioned from this role to forging lifelong friendships, working with Bill Anderson and his best friends, George and Luther Rodgers. In 1996, he became business partners with Bill, together navigating the car business landscape for many years. Eventually, Bobby took the courageous step of establishing his own car lot, Bobby Brant Auto Sales, a venture he maintained with pride until his final days.

Bobby's character was defined not only by his professional accomplishments but also by his deep-rooted faith and the love he shared with those around him. He was a proud friend of Bill W’s for 32 years. He treasured time spent with the love of his life, Barbara, whom he married on June 1, 1968. Together, they crafted a life filled with cherished moments, from beach trips to bike rides, where every adventure was underscored by their deep affection for one another. Their passion for life was further illuminated by their shared enjoyment of houseboats, a love affair that began with the acquisition of their first vessel in 2002. A devoted family man, Bobby found immense joy in watching his children and grandchildren grow and sharing in their milestones, including their marriages and the beginnings of their own families.

An honorable Marine, Bobby served from 1966 to 1972, embodying the values of service and integrity throughout his life. His quick wit, generous spirit, and ability to connect with people made him a beloved figure in his community. Friends and family will remember Bobby not only for his generous spirit and humorous soul but also for his profound kindness and wisdom. He was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve and cherished every moment with those around him, never meeting a stranger. Bobby possessed an enchanting ability to weave stories that captivated listeners, always ready to offer advice grounded in his own experiences, famously declaring, "always tell the truth and everything else will fall into place."

Bobby's legacy will live on through his surviving family: his wife, Barbara; their children Christie Campbell (Brian), Richard Wayne (Stephanie), and Anthony Allen; and his cherished grandchildren Hunter Rennie (Lauren), Kelcee Brant, Olivia Stevenson (Beau), and great-grandson Roman Rennie. He held them close to his heart and was proud of all their accomplishments, always encouraging them with love and laughter.

Bobby Brant leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories, woven together by moments of joy, love, and laughter. As we mourn his passing, we find comfort knowing that he is now at peace, seated with the Lord, watching sunrises with a smile on his face—just as he would want us to remember him.

A memorial service to honor Bobby's life will be held on January 13, 2025, at Smith Family Funeral Home in North Little Rock, Arkansas, starting at 1 PM. Friends and family are welcome to come together to share their stories and celebrate a life well-lived.