Bobby Merritt Coggsdale, 85, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2020. He was born on June 24, 1935, in Southampton County, VA to the late James Raymond and Ruby Merritt Coggsdale. He is also predeceased by his wife, Mary Ann Shepherd Coggsdale; daughter, Kelley Lynn Coggsdale; granddaughter, Kristen Paige Coggsdale; and sisters, Ruth Duke Vickhouse, Bertie Goodman and Joyce Wright. He attended Courtland High School and graduated in 1953. Bobby enjoyed high school football, baseball, 4-H, FFA, hunting and fishing. He was chosen to attend the 1952 National FFA Conference in Kansas City. The train ride was a huge experience for a teenager.

Bobby later attended and graduated from VPI in 1957 with a degree in agricultural economics. He served as Assistant County Agent in Page and Warren Counties until being drafted into the Army.

After completing BCT, AIT, OCS and Airborne Training he served as a training and communications officer in the 2nd Infantry Division. Following active duty, he served in the Army Reserve for over 22 years obtaining the rank of Lt. Colonel. He served as Battalion Commander and his last assignment was as Brigade Executive Officer. In 1978, he was chosen to be Commander of Troops of the 80th Infantry Division for the Inauguration of Governor Dalton. Letters of commendation from General Milby and Governor Dalton followed his assignment.

Bobby enjoyed working as a VA Tech Agricultural Extension Agent for 34 years. He served in Northumberland County where he also served as Chairman of the Highway Safety Committee as well as on Virginia's Planning District 21. He spent the last 21 years in Nansemond County and the City of Suffolk. He was recognized by the National County Agents Association for his distinguished service.

Bobby was active at Western Branch Baptist and West End Baptist Churches. He served as Deacon at both and chaired the Finance Committee and the Board of Deacons at West End.

In late October 2000, Bobby was fishing with two friends near the Monitor Merrimac Bridge Tunnel when a semi-truck plunged into the James Rivers. He reacted immediately and along with a friend, was credited with saving the life of the driver. His motto, engrained by his beloved parents, was "Never quit!"

Bobby is survived by his son, Robert R. Coggsdale and wife, Leslie; grandsons, Travis, Evan and Beau Coggsdale; great grandsons, Sidney and Atlee Merritt Coggsdale; and 2 nieces and a nephew.

Bobby's memorial service will be held at a later date with Revs. Dale Peterson and Floyd "Skip" Irby officiating. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Sepsis Alliance at sepsis.org .