Bobby Arthur Leach
Bobby Arthur Leach, 82, of Clinton passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on Friday, April 18, 2025. He was born June 1, 1942, in Chattanooga and was born again on June 6, 1965.
Bobby was born to W.H. and Mavia Leach, and was raised in New River by his grandparents, the late Lewis and Belle Coker. He was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam. After his service, he attended the University of Tennessee on the GI Bill and earned a degree in business administration.
Bobby worked as an ironworker and later became vice president of Ohio Valley Riggers and Erectors Inc. before returning to East Tennessee to enter the coal industry. He was a stockholder in several mining companies and other businesses throughout Tennessee and Kentucky. Following his time in mining, he focused on B&D Equipment Company, Inc., which specializes in large-scale excavation and mining reclamation projects.
A man of deep faith, Bobby was a member of Clinch River Baptist Church. He faithfully attended Sunday School at Clinch River and worship services at Beech Park Baptist Church. He enjoyed spending time with his family, cheering on Lady Vols basketball, and riding ATVs in the mountains of East Tennessee.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronnie Coker Leach, Jimmy Leach and Doug Leach; his aunt and uncle, Pearl and Reuben Phillips; and his uncle, Verldon Coker — all of whom played vital roles in his upbringing.
He is survived by his children, Lori Ellis and husband Mike of Rocky Top; Robbie Leach and wife Kim of Oliver Springs; and Brad Leach of Somerset, California; grandchildren, Beth Higgins and husband Jon, Brooke Ellis, Blair Martin and husband Brian, Blake Leach and wife Shana, and Kayla Elliott; great-grandchildren, Lola Ellis, Baylor Higgins, Belle Higgins, Zoey Elliott and Rook Leach; brothers, Gary Leach and wife Amy, Randy Leach and Billy Jacobs; sister, Cissy Hurd and husband Steve; and several cousins and many other relatives and friends.
Robbie and Lori extend a heartfelt thank you to the Bob Swisher family for their years of unconditional love, friendship and support for their daddy.
The family received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 21, at Beech Park Baptist Church, 1085 E. Tri-County Blvd., Oliver Springs. A funeral followed at 7 p.m., with his son, Robbie Leach, officiating.
A graveside service was be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, at Phillips Cemetery in New River. Pallbearers were David Cofer, Dennis Coday, Jason Bunch, Kerry Templin, Jackie Phillips and Mickey Phillips.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beech Park Baptist Church Building Fund.
Leach Family Funeral Home and Cremation is honored to serve the Leach family.
leachfamilyfuneralhome.com
