Bobby Leon Zumbro was born on August 20,1928 near Viola, TN to his parents Jesse and Mattie Zumbro.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Dillard Zumbro, in- laws , James and Ethel Thomas, Ray and Ruth Thomas, Ken Thomas, Jack Roper, his son, Thomas Leon Zumbro and his loving wife of 65 years, Nellie Thomas Zumbro.
Surviving relatives are sisters, Ann Bell and Betty Roper Armistead, his sister-in-law, Jo Thomas and his daughter Susan (Gary) Dennis, grandson, Max (Sasha) Wilkinson, granddaughter, Terra (Brian) Sally and great grandson, Caden Wilkinson. He also leaves behind beloved nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.
Bro. Bobby was known as a faithful preacher, an avid sports fan, and a dedicated coach. He was raised during the depression by loving and hard-working parents. By the grace of God, he found himself led to go to church since his family did not attend. He was saved in that Baptist church and heard God calling him to be a pastor. He earned a degree in theology and graduated from Union University in Jackson, TN and also received a degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He continued his love of learning by reading lots of different genres of books, especially history and religion.
He served as pastor in several churches, Rucker Baptist Church in Rutherford County, First Baptist Churches in Whiteville, Dunlap and Woodbury, TN. He loved pastoring the members in those churches. He tried to be there for them in times of sorrow as well as times of celebration. He loved the communities in all those towns. He attended all the high school basketball and football games. In his free time, he coached many different Dixie Youth baseball teams, Junior Pro basketball teams and even a middle school football team. He often retold funny or amazing stories about these games or players.
He loved his grandchildren and great grandson dearly. He often played with them when they were small. He actively attended their extracurricular activities even into their high school years. His proudest moments were to witness their baptisms after their professions of faith in Jesus. Many could tell stories of times he supported them or celebrated with them.
“Brother Bobby” only wanted people to know Jesus. May the Lord say to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant”.
Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Woodbury First Baptist Church with Bro. Dean Anderson officiating. Interment will follow in the Freedonia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, he requested that you give to the ministry of the church of your choice.
Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net
