Robert "Bobby" Darrell Burns, Jr.

Robert “Bobby” Darrell Burns Jr., 67, a lifelong resident of Bacova, passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023 after an extended battle with cancer.

He was born in Hot Springs on Monday, July 9, 1956, the eldest son of the late Robert Sr. and Stella Merle (Waugh) Burns.

Bobby was a graduate of Bath County High School, Class of 1975. He was the owner and proprietor of Bobby’s Auto in Mitchelltown for several years until he left the automotive repair field. Before opening his garage, he worked at Criser’s Livery in Hot Springs as a mechanic and driver. His first employment was for Malcolm Hirsh as a grounds worker with Tilson Taylor and Ralph Layman. While employed there, he became a certified waste water treatment operator of the village of Bacova. He also worked at the Vepco project for a while in the warehouse. The last employment before his illness was at Augusta Lumber.

In his spare time, Bobby could be found drag racing and was an original member of the Bacova Hooligans Drag Racing Team. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic and having helped countless people within the community.

In addition to his parents, Bobby was predeceased by a sister, Naomi Grace Burns; grandparents Thomas and Leta Folks Burns and Lonnie and Matilda Rucker Waugh; very special aunt and uncle Bob and Annie Jenkins; as well as his beloved hound, Jasper.

He is survived by his sister Patricia “Patty” Clark and husband, Steve of Covington; brother and primary caregivers, Rembert “Wayne” Burns and his companion, Julie Meadows of Warm Springs; three nephews, Brett Clark of Hot Springs, Stevie Clark and wife, Brittani of Lexington and Cameron Burns of Warm Springs; great-niece, Brinsley Clark of Lexington; as well as a host of friends including Jennifer Vess, Yvonne Ryder, Kenny Woodzell, Ben Whited, Richard “Dickie” Criser, Grayson (his little cookie buddy), Barbara and Ray Shifflett, Shirley Puffenbarger, Fern Plecker and the ladies at the Hairstyling Shop.

Per his wishes, Bobby will be laid to rest in the Mt. Hope Cemetery in Bacova.  A graveside service will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, October 15, 2023 with Pastor Shane Hiner officiating.

Pallbearers will be Brett Clark, Steven Clark, Cameron Burns and friends in attendance,

Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Hope Cemetery, 1732 Abbey Oak Drive, Vienna, VA 22182; or Doris L. Via Cancer Fund, PO Box 174, Hot Springs, VA 24445.