Robert Charles Furrey

Robert Charles Furrey passed away on April 8, 2021. Memorial services will be held via Zoom on May 15, at 2:00 PM (CST). Memorial services will use the Meeting ID: 811 8586 0076; and Pass code: 191420.

Bob was born April 1, 1952 to Robert Edward Furrey Sr. and Katherine Sadie Johnson. He is survived by his brother Charles Walmor Furrey. He is also survived by his Mosaic Central Iowa family, and by his foster family Jodi and Dale Gillian. Bob was preceded in death by his sister Katherine Ellen Staples.

Bob was a surprise baby. His mother was diagnosed as having an abdominal tumor which masked her pregnancy, consequentially resulting in Bob being born with mental retardation. This did not keep Bob from having a very active life.

Bob completed his elementary education at Nettelhorst School in 1966, and his secondary education at Augustus H Burley School in Chicago, graduating in 1969.

After graduation Bob worked at The LAMBS in Chicago where he among other duties had the responsibility of leading the ponies while giving children pony rides. After his father died in April 1971 he moved with his mother to Erie, Illinois in 1972 to be close to his brother Charles. Then in 1980 he moved again with his mother to Des Moines, Iowa to be close to Charles.

While in Des Moines Bob was employed at the Federal Building Cafeteria, In-The-Bag (where he got the name “Brownie Bob”), Jester Park Stables, and the Mosaic Retail Store. He also volunteered at the Animal Rescue League.

Bob lived in group homes with Mosaic Central Iowa April 1999 to 2017. While there he had the opportunity to take advantage of some special activities like a cruise to the Bahamas, trips to Hawaii and to Disney World. From 2017 until his death Bob lived with Jodi and Dale Gilliam as one of the family. While with them Bob got to enjoy various vacation activities like fishing and camping.

Although not becoming a baptized b\publisher of Jehovah’s Witnesses Bob was eager to attend congregation meetings from the time his mother was baptized in 1973 until his death. Only poor health in recent time kept him from attending.

Bob had the hope of a resurrection into Jehovah’s promised paradise on earth. Some years ago he said he’s going to run circles around his brother in that promised paradise.
Bob was well loved by many friends and family for his sweet personality and positive attitude which kept him going. He will always be remembered for his beautiful smile and contagious laugh.

We are comforted by the Scriptural assurance that Jehovah yearns to resurrect Bob who is temporarily sleeping in death (Job 14:14, 15).

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