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Community Remembers Robert ‘Bob’ Joseph DeSoto

A tranquil garden scene honoring Robert DeSoto

Ooltewah, Tennessee, October 23, 2025

News Summary

Robert ‘Bob’ Joseph DeSoto, a beloved community member from Ooltewah, passed away at 68 after a life devoted to family and service. Known for his commitment to helping others, he leaves behind his wife, two daughters, and five granddaughters. His funeral will take place at Silverdale Baptist Church, where attendees are requested to honor his love for nature by bringing a living plant instead of flowers.

Ooltewah, Tennessee – Robert “Bob” Joseph DeSoto passed away on October 17, 2025, at the age of 68 after a life dedicated to family and service. Originally from Southern California, Bob moved to Ooltewah in July 2019, bringing with him a strong commitment to helping others and a passion for outdoor activities.

Born on February 19, 1957, in California to parents Bobby Joe DeSoto and Teresa Prince, Bob had a fulfilling life marked by family and career achievements. He was married to his wife, Jodie DeSoto, for 38 years, after they tied the knot on April 4, 1987. Bob is survived by Jodie and their two daughters, Jessica, who is married to Ryan Shibata, and Jacalyn, who is married to Nickolas Ernandes. The family also includes five granddaughters: Kora, Maggie, and Banks Shibata, as well as Allison and Lillian Ernandes.

Bob dedicated over 40 years to his work as a heavy equipment operator, where he demonstrated a strong work ethic and commitment to his profession. Outside of work, Bob found joy in yard work and engaging with nature. He was well-known in his community for lending a helping hand to those in need, embodying the spirit of service in both his personal and professional life.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Renee Conley, Jolyn Dalrymple, and Noelle DeSoto. Bob also leaves behind two sisters, Kathy Jones and Julie Moore, along with numerous nieces and nephews who remember him fondly.

The funeral services for Robert “Bob” Joseph DeSoto will take place on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Silverdale Baptist Church, located at 8761 Snowy Owl Road, Ooltewah, Tennessee, 37363. Pastor Randy Thomas will officiate the service. In memoriam, the family has requested that attendees bring a living plant instead of flowers, honoring Bob’s love for nature and new life.

Those wishing to share thoughts or memories can do so online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com. The funeral arrangements are being managed by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, which can be found at 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tennessee, 37421.

Summary of Key Information

  • Name: Robert “Bob” Joseph DeSoto
  • Age at Passing: 68
  • Date of Passing: October 17, 2025
  • Date of Funeral Services: October 30, 2025
  • Location of Funeral Services: Silverdale Baptist Church, Ooltewah, Tennessee
  • Marital Status: Married to Jodie DeSoto for 38 years
  • Children: Jessica Shibata and Jacalyn Ernandes
  • Grandchildren: Kora, Maggie, Banks Shibata, Allison and Lillian Ernandes
  • Occupation: Heavy equipment operator for over 40 years

FAQ Section

Who was Robert “Bob” Joseph DeSoto?

Robert “Bob” Joseph DeSoto was a resident of Ooltewah, Tennessee, who passed away at the age of 68 after a life dedicated to family and service.

What date did Bob DeSoto pass away?

Bob DeSoto passed away on October 17, 2025.

Where and when are the funeral services for Bob DeSoto?

The funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Silverdale Baptist Church in Ooltewah, Tennessee.

Who is survived by Bob DeSoto?

Bob is survived by his wife Jodie DeSoto, two daughters Jessica and Jacalyn, and five granddaughters.

What was Bob DeSoto’s occupation?

Bob worked as a heavy equipment operator for over 40 years.

Key Features of Bob DeSoto’s Life

Feature Details
Full Name Robert “Bob” Joseph DeSoto
Age 68
Date of Passing October 17, 2025
Family Wife, two daughters, five granddaughters
Occupation Heavy equipment operator
Funeral Date October 30, 2025
Memorial Request Living plant instead of flowers

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STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER

The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.

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