Robert “Bobby” Henry Lovvorn, Jr., 83, of Murrells Inlet, widower of Elizabeth Calhoun Lovvorn, passed away on February 15, 2026, at Tidelands Waccamaw Hospital.
Born on July 8, 1942, in Columbia, South Carolina, Bobby was the beloved son of Robert Henry Lovvorn, Sr. and Ellen Childs Seabrook Lovvorn.
A man of remarkable character and strength, Bobby graduated from The Citadel in 1964 with a Certified Life Underwriting (CLU) designation. He began his career at the Calhoun Life Insurance Company, started by his family. Over the years, he navigated various transitions in the insurance industry, ultimately becoming an independent agent who worked with multiple companies, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
Bobby’s commitment to service extended beyond his professional life. As a veteran of the United States Army, he served during the Vietnam Era, a testament to his strength and enduring love for his country. His passion for helping others continued throughout his life, evidenced by his active involvement in various organizations, including the Sertoma Club, where he made lasting contributions to his community. Bobby also served as the head commissioner of the Riverbank Zoo, volunteered with the Columbia Children’s Home, and remained actively engaged with the Alumni Association of The Citadel and the Citadel Brigadier Foundation. His love for social gatherings was exemplified by his participation in various social dance clubs that hosted many memorable events.
Bobby was an active member of Trinity Cathedral in Columbia and Garden City Chapel in Garden City, South Carolina, and he had also been a member of the Church of the Resurrection. His faith was an integral part of his life, guiding him through challenges and instilling in him the values he cherished.
An avid fisherman, he found joy in the simplicity of fishing off his dock and took great pleasure in traveling with friends. He often savored breathtaking sunsets over Murrells Inlet, moments that reflected his appreciation for nature’s beauty and the joys of life.
Bobby is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Lovvorn Cornelius (Mark), and son, Robert Lovvorn, III (Rhonda O’Dell); sister, Mary Lovvorn; grandchildren, Bethany Plummer (Justin), Lauren Lovvorn Porter (Tristan), Jordan Cornelius (Anna), Philip Lovvorn, and Jay Ashley, his great-grandchildren, Ava Boyd, Claire Porter, and Noah Porter. He was a devoted family man, proud of his role as a husband for over sixty years to his beloved Lib, who preceded him in death. Bobby cared for her through her battle with cancer, showcasing a dedication that resonated deeply within his relationships.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a sister Ellen Lovvorn and a great-granddaughter Mayson Grace Boyd.
The grave side service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on February 28, 2026, at Greenwood Memorial Gardens with Pastor Jordan Calhoun Cornelius and Pastor Jay Overbay officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorial may be made to the River Banks Zoo & Garden,500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210, (803) 779-8717, https://society.riverbanks.org/donate.