Bobby Lee “Bob” Stems, 56, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Bob was born on May 12, 1970, to Bobby Gene Stems and Roberta (Freeman) Ferrell. He attended grade school in Oxnard, California, and middle and high school in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Valencia High School in Valencia, California, in 1988, where he participated in and lettered in long-distance track.

Following high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country for two years and five months as a sniper. After his military service, he built a career as a long-haul truck driver, spending more than 30 years on the road.

When he wasn't working, Bob enjoyed riding motorcycles, shooting, fishing, cooking, and especially spending time on his farm caring for his animals, which included goats, cows, chickens, quail, and pigs. He took great pride in his farm and the life he built there.

Above all else, Bob cherished his children and grandchildren. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his grandkids and spoiling them with shopping trips. His love for children extended far beyond his own family, and he was always willing to support causes that benefited young people whenever he could.

Bob was a generous man with a heart of gold. A man of faith, he was baptized on September 25, 2025, at The Bends in Warwick, Oklahoma, by Bro. David Roberts. His generosity, unwavering love for his family, and kind, giving heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” – Romans 13:8 NIV

Bob was preceded in death by his niece, Laura Breanne Smothers; grandparents, Jack and Nellie Stems; father, Bobby Gene Stems; uncle, Jack and aunt Dottie; aunt, Virginia; aunt, Laura; and cousin, Debi.

He is survived by his mother Roberta Ferrell; stepfather, Jim Ferrell; five children, Lela Smothers and husband Troy Vega and their children London, Phillip, Ellie, Lane, Raven, and Ethan; 1 great-grandchild expected in February of 2027; Tevin Robinson and his wife Kira Aniol and their child Briar Jean; Toby Robinson and his children Alexander and Delilah; Trayton Robinson and his wife Alley and their children Asher, Alvis, and Adalynn; and Tristan Robinson; aunt, Jean Smothers; uncle Andy Smothers; and a niece Prudance Smothers; sister, Vickie and her husband Jeff and their children, Jessie, Jill, Joshua, and Jeremy; brother, Richard and his wife Maria and their children Cayla, Christian, and Conner; brother, Robert and his wife Denise and their children, Josh, Lexi, and Ali-Bell; brother, Steven and his 3 boys; as well as a host of other family members and dear friends.