James "Bobby" Robert Vance

Mr. Bobby Vance, age 70, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from his battle with cancer. Bobby was born on February 1, 1955, in Meridian, MS to James and Rebecca Vance of Valley Road. Bobby was their only son of four children. Through his youngest sister, Mary Jane, Bobby met his wife, Monica. Bobby and Monica were married at Midway Baptist Church and have lived happily together for 50 years this year. Bobby and Monica have three daughters and two sons-in-law, Cindy (Jeff) Baker, Angela (Chuck) Wilson, and Christian Vance. They have been blessed with three grandchildren, Jaylen Vance, Gabriel Baker, and Jayla Vance.

Bobby, as an avid outdoorsman, had a lifetime passion for fishing and hunting. In his free time, he could always be found in his boat at the river with his wife, at the pond in his backyard fishing or in his shoot house enjoying the peace and beauty of nature. Whether casting a line or waiting quietly in his shoot house, he found solace in the wilderness and quiet, and he cherished the time spent outdoors. As he got older, he could be found in his shoot house shooting videos of the deer strolling by, while reading his bible and enjoying a full thermos of coffee. A man of deep faith, Bobby was known for his love of the Bible, always finding strength and guidance in its word. His quiet wisdom and strong belief in the power of prayer were a source of comfort to his family and friends throughout his life.

From a young boy, Bobby loved playing his guitar. He was a dedicated fan of Bluegrass and Southern Gospel music. The sweet sounds of guitars, banjos, fiddles, and Bass fiddles filled his home and heart. He was always eager to share his favorite tunes with others. He could frequently be found strumming his beloved Martin guitar with Sweeney and Friends on Saturday nights at local restaurants, nursing homes, and churches.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 8, 2025, with visitation at 2:00 pm and service following at 3:00 pm at First Assembly of Meridian with Pastor Bob Null and Brother John Sweeney officiating.

Mr. Bobby Vance was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rebecca Vance. He is survived by his wife, Monica Vance; his daughters, Cindy (Jeff) Baker, Angela (Chuck) Wilson, and Christian Vance; his grandchildren, Jaylen Vance, Gabriel Baker, and Jayla Vance; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Becky (David) Valentine, Nancy Riser, Mary Jane Mathews, and L.J. "Pete" (Shirley) Graves; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Bobby will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and his unwavering devotion to his family. He was a lifetime volunteer firefighter who always answered calls to help those in need. Bobby is so very loved and will be deeply missed, but his love for the Lord, the outdoors, music, and safety will live on in the stories and memories we share and the hunting and fishing in the backyard will be enjoyed by his daughters, grandchildren and for generations to come.

Online condolences may be expressed at robertbarhamffh.com.