Bobby Earl Wilder, 77, of Panama City Beach, FL went home to be with the Lord on February 18, 2018. He was born on October 26, 1940 in Panama City, FL to Earnest and Lois Wilder.
Bobby is survived by his true love and wife of almost 56 years, Carolyn Smith Wilder. He also leaves behind two sons, Thomas Wilder (and Shari) of Rome GA, and Steven Wilder (and Leslie) of Asheville, NC, and two sparkles to his eyes, grandchildren Chloe and Addison. Bobby has two sisters that reside in Panama City, Ernestine Haisten and Esther Lee. A brother, Bill, preceded Bobby in death.
Bobby earned multiple degrees from Auburn University including a Doctorate in Mathematics. After a stint with the US Army, Bobby began a career in education. He taught mathematics at Tennessee Tech, Cookeville, TN from 1969-1970. He returned to Panama City in 1971 accepting a research position with the Naval Coastal Systems Center. He returned to education at Berry College, Rome GA, in 1973, including chairing the Department of Mathematics. After 30 years, he retired from Berry in 2003. He and Carolyn returned "home" to Panama City in 2005.
In lieu of flowers, the family request any donations be sent to the Grace Episcopal Church "Thursday Supper at Grace" Bobby's name. A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 22, at 10AM, at Grace Episcopal Church, 9101 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, FL, 32407, where Bobby was a member.