Bobby Hershel Porterfield

Bobby Hershel Porterfield, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Bishop, Georgia on December13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 13, 1938, in Watkinsville, Georgia, Bobby made a lasting impact on those who knew him through both his personal and professional endeavors.

Bobby was a proud graduate of Watkinsville High School, Class of 1958. After marrying, he took a position with Merrill Lynch in Athens, Georgia, before realizing his dream of entrepreneurship. He opened and operated his own business, Porterfield Nursery Garden Center and Landscape, where he devoted his skills and passion until his retirement in 2009.

Beyond his professional life, Bobby dedicated himself to serving his community as an Oconee County Commissioner from 1977 to 1988. His commitment extended further as he was a member of the Scottish Rite Masons, proudly serving Amity Lodge #731 in Watkinsville for 50 years. Bobby was also heavily involved in local sports, coaching and supporting the Watkinsville Little League Baseball and Basketball teams for many years. His unwavering support for his favorite teams, particularly the Georgia Bulldogs Football and NASCAR, was evident in his lifelong joy as a season ticket holder, attending numerous games with enthusiasm.

After retirement, Bobby found immense joy and peace in tending to his yard and plants, making gardening one of his cherished hobbies. His passion for nurturing not only demonstrated his dedication but brought beauty to his surroundings.

Bobby is survived by his daughters, Sheri Porterfield Veale and her husband Kelly of Bishop, GA, Amy Porterfield of Bishop, GA, Robin Porterfield of Athens, GA, and Dana Porterfield Loyd of Siloam. He is also survived by his grandsons, Nicholas Loyd of Winterville, GA, and Bobby Loyd of Atlanta, GA, as well as his nephew, Tracy Carroll of Bogart, who was raised in the home following his mother's passing, and his sister-in-law, Juanita Hammond Porterfield of Athens, GA. He enjoyed numerous relationships with several nieces and nephews who will fondly remember him.

Bobby was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marion Porterfield, and was the son of the late Henry N. and Leona B. Porterfield. He was also preceded by his siblings: Dorothy “Dot” Porterfield Weirauch Hayes and her husband Charles, Henry Ford Porterfield and his wife Beverly, Willie R. Porterfield (Billy), and Doris Porterfield Thornton and her husband Gene.

A visitation to honor Bobby will be held on December 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes in Watkinsville, Georgia.

Bobby Hershel Porterfield will be warmly remembered for his many contributions to his family and community, embodying the spirit of generosity, dedication, and love throughout his life. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, West, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com