Dr. Robert Gene "Bob" Ethridge

Dr. Robert “Bob” Ethridge passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Laurel Crest in West Columbia, SC, with his two sons by his side. Funeral services for Bob will be held at Temples-Halloran Funeral Home in Columbia on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 1:00pm. Following the service, interment will be at Bush River Memorial Gardens next to the funeral home, where Bob will be laid to rest next to his wife of nearly 45 years, Martha Jo Ethridge.

Bob, a native of Texas, was born to Wallace and Leona Ethridge, on February 25, 1940. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Bob’s life was spent in service to God, teaching and engaging in missions work wherever he went. Bob taught at Missouri Baptist College and worked for the Sunday School Board (Lifeway). He traveled the world in service of missions work with the International Mission Board. He continued his missions work and research at the SC Baptist Convention, where he ultimately retired to spend time with his family.

Bob was an avid photographer and always had a camera attached to his hand. He enjoyed singing in the church choir and was part of the choir and handbell group while living at the Laurel Crest Community. He was a cherished part of his church and would often be asked to narrate programs as a skilled orator. In his spare time, he enjoyed golf and NASCAR.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Ethridge.

He is survived by his sons and their wives, Christopher and Kimberly Ethridge, Gregory and Ashlyn Ethridge, as well as two grandchildren, Emma and Denver, and his sister, Janet Anthony. Memorial Contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to Mission Dignity.