Bobby Joe

Aldridge

Bobby Joe Aldridge was born November 15, 1935, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to J.D. and Lillian Aldridge. A proud Oklahoma native, Bobby graduated from Southeast High School, beginning a life centered around family, faith, hard work, and friendships that would span generations.

On April 24, 1954, Bobby married the love of his life, Frances Dee Leonard, at First Christian Church in Oklahoma City. Together, they built a life and family grounded in love and shared values. During the 1960s, Bobby and Frances became active members of Hillcrest Christian Church, where they faithfully served both their congregation and community. Bobby especially enjoyed serving as an usher, fulfilling his duties as a Elder, and volunteering with Mobile Meals, now known as Meals on Wheels. His willingness to serve others was simply a reflection of the kind of man he was.

Bobby dedicated 40 years of his working career to Carpenter Paper Company before retiring from Unisource in 1997 at the age of 62. However, retirement didn't keep him away from the working world for long. Always one to stay busy, Bobby soon embarked on his second adventure with International Paper, where he had a second retirement.

Bobby was known for being an exceptional salesman, and his reputation often preceded him. He understood that good business was about more than selling a product; it was about building relationships and taking care of people. He went above and beyond for his customers, especially during the holidays, making sure they felt appreciated and remembered. His work ethic, personality, and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know and work with him.

When Bobby wasn't working, you could often find him doing something he loved. He was an avid University of Oklahoma Sooners fan and enjoyed cheering on the Oklahoma City Thunder. One of his favorite traditions was taking his son Robert to OU games when he was a young boy. Years later, the roles reversed, and Robert would take his dad to games, giving them the opportunity to let loose, cheer loudly, and go a little fan crazy together. Those shared moments created memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Bobby also enjoyed playing golf with his church friends and spending time in the outdoors bird hunting. Pheasant and quail hunting trips were among his favorite pastimes, and there was no shortage of stories to tell when he returned from the field. And, of course, no story about Bobby's hunting adventures would be complete without mentioning Maggie. Son Ronnie took great care of Maggie to ensure that she stayed with the family as long as possible. Maggie was a special one-eyed bird dog who lived to the remarkable age of 17. She spent countless days in the field alongside Bobby, Robert and Ronnie faithfully joining the family on their hunting adventures. She was more than a hunting companion; she was part of the family and a beloved piece of Bobby's story.

Above all, Bobby leaves behind a legacy of faith, dedication, hard work, service, and love for his family. Whether serving his church, caring for his customers, cheering on his favorite teams, or enjoying a day in the field, Bobby found joy in the people and experiences that made life meaningful.

Those left to cherish his memory are his two sons, Robert and his wife Laura and Ronnie; his sisters, Linda Griffith and Pat Williams; his brothers, Larry Griffith, Gary Griffith, and Jerry Griffith; his grandchildren, Gregory Aldridge, Cherish Aldridge, and Mitchell Aldridge; his great-grandchildren, Lokey Robb, Denver Aldridge, and Ember Aldridge; and his nieces, Ruth Lynn Schrader, and Laurie Alsup, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly. A special thank you to Celeste who stood by and cared deeply for Bobby as a caregiver.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, J.D. and Lillian Aldridge; hie beloved wife, Frances Dee; his daughter-in-law, Tena Aldridge; and his faithful, one-eyed bird dog, Maggie.

Though his days of cheering from the stands, walking the golf course, working with customers, and heading out into the field have come to an end, the memories he created and the lives he touched will continue to live on through those who loved him.

Visitation will be held Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. friends at South Lakes Vondel L. Smith & Son Mortuary.

Funeral Service celebrating Bobby's life will be held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at South Lakes Vondel L. Smith & Son Mortuary.

Interment will take place Monday, November 16, at 4:00 p.m. at Heritage Burial Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Bobby's life was measured not only in the years he lived, but in the family he loved, the friendships he built, the faith he carried, and the countless memories he leaves behind.