Robert Otis “Bobby” Morrison of Heavener was born Sept. 23, 1944 in Howe to Otis and Olive (Byford) Morrison and went home to be with his Lord Oct. 6, 2025 in Fort Smith, Arkansas at the age of 81.
Read more: Bobby Morrison obituaryFuneral service is 10 a.m. Friday at the Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Heavener with Brother Sam Dyer officiating. Burial will follow in Howe Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Poteau DAV Chapter #63 under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
Bobby, a lifelong resident of area, worked on the Rock Island Railroad, and a devoted member of the Baptist faith, passed away surrounded by his loved ones. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 188. Known for his adventurous spirit, he spent countless hours hunting and fishing, embracing the beauty of the outdoors. Bobby’s greatest joy came from the time he shared with family and friends. A proud veteran, Bobby served his country honorably during the Vietnam era, dedicating four years to the United States Navy followed by twelve years in the United States Army. On special request, Bobby was one of the first commissioned on the BB-62 Battleship, when it came out of retirement. He was not only a beloved father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend but also a pillar of strength and support to everyone who knew him. Bobby’s generous heart and joyful presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Surviving family members are two daughters Rachel Strother and husband Jake of Hatfield, Arkansas, and Robbie Christmas and husband Steve of Van Buren, Arkansas; five sons Nicholas Morrison and wife Kaycee of Heavener, Steven Morrison of Van Buren, Arkansas, Bobby Morrison and wife Tanya of Panama, Barb Morrison of Stigler, and William Morrison and wife Roberta of Fort Smith, Arkansas; one sister, Alice Gullick, of Mena, Arkansas; one brother, James Morrison, of Howe; eight grandchildren Meisha Edwards and husband Cody, Jessica McDonald, Taylor Strother, Maria Morrison, Cordale Morrison, Baylee Morrison, Kari Morrison, Gabe McAffee and wife Erika; 11 great-grandchildren Kodyn, Keynslee, Kainyn Edwards, Riley and Adley Leatherwood, Hudson and Emersyn McAffee, Calvin Morrison, Everleigh Strother, and Rosaleigh Strother; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and a host of friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ellen Diana Morrison; two sisters Shirley Storment and Christine Smith; three brothers Gary, Allen and Ike Morrison; and two granddaughters.
Pallbearers are Taylor Strother, Cordale Morrison, Gabe McAffee, James Morrison, Joey Watkins, Jake Strother and Casey Goodyear.
Viewing is from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday. The family will visit with friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
To sign Bobby’s online guestbook please visit www.dowdenrobertsfuneralhome.com.
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