Commander Bobby Joe Felton, age 80 of Sparta, Tennessee died peacefully at his home surrounded by family and friends on December 1, 2022.

Bobby was born December 18, 1941 in Doyle, Tennessee to the late Joe Denny and Clara Elizabeth Felton. He retired as a submarine commander of the USS Darter in the United States Navy after 31 years of dedicated service. Early in his career, he had the distinction of being the youngest Chief serving in the Navy. In addition to his numerous awards and medals, he was also a certified Navy Diver.

After military retirement in 1989, Bobby worked for an engineering firm, then as a math teacher before ultimately retiring to his family farm in White County.

Bobby was an avid outdoorsman, loving to hunt and fish in both fresh and saltwater. He was also an accomplished hiker, completing the 100 highest mountains in New England. Most of all, Bobby was proud of his faith and leading his life as a believing Christian.

In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his grandson, Matthew Felton.

Bobby is lovingly survived by his wife of 56 years Arlene Felton

Son: Erik Felton and wife Heather

Two granddaughters: Alexandra Felton and Eleanor Felton

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00am Monday, December 5, 2022 from the Chapel of Hunter Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will follow in Old Union Cemetery. The family will receive friends from4-6:00pm Sunday at Hunter Funeral Home. Bob McCoy will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sparta/White County YMCA, 123 Moore Street, Sparta, TN 38583