Robert "Bob" J Babros

Robert J. “Bob” Babros passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, at the age of 93. He was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Helen Babros and his first great grandson Axel Jay Mobley. Until his very last days, Bob carried himself with the same kindness, grace, compassion, and gratitude that defined his entire life. He often reflected on how blessed he was; for his family, his friendships, his travels, and the countless experiences that made up what he would call “a wonderful life.” If Bob’s life could be summed up in six words, they would be: Family. Friends. Needlepoint. Sports. Food. Fun. In his 93 years, he enjoyed an abundance of them all. Bob was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Paul Joseph and Helen Marie Babros. He spent the first five years of his life there before moving with his family to Dayton, Ohio in 1937. Bob attended school at Brown Elementary and then graduated from Fairview high school in 1950. Bob attended Sinclair for a tool maker apprentice program. On June 18, 1955, he married the love of his life, Mary Lou Kauffman. They raised their children, Jon Michael and Kristen Lynn, in Dayton before moving to Gadsden, Alabama in 1973, where Bob began his work at Dixie Tool as a mold and die engineer. He remained dedicated to his craft until his retirement in 1998. Becoming “Gramps” was one of Bob’s greatest joys. He adored his grandchildren Caitlin (Cody) Mobley, Jessica Babros (Maria), and Lauren (Walker) Shortnacy, and proudly embraced his role in their lives. His love only multiplied with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Axel Jay Mobley, Charli Mae Mobley, Lindy Roan Shortnacy, and Everett Reid Shortnacy. He made it a priority to stay involved and connected, making multiple trips to Ohio and Demopolis even as his health declined. Being present for his family was never optional, it was essential. Bob treasured his friendships, developing and nurturing them at every stage of life. He believed relationships required attention, and he put in the work through phone calls, emails, FaceTime chats, and dinners after Saturday night Mass. Bob was a Knight of Columbus at St. James Catholic Church and a volunteer for more than 20 years at the Center of Concern. Bob quietly served his community with humility and consistency. He was known for sending an email of encouragement and for showing up, again and again, for the people he loved. Bob’s passion for needlepoint appeared later in life. What began as a simple interest grew into a beloved hobby. He delighted in stitching custom pieces for family members and friends, filling their homes with tangible reminders of him. Every stitch was another expression of his love. Bob was known for being a “wonderful” golfer. He played weekly, traveled to senior tournaments across the state, and loved playing alongside his buddies on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. A proud member of Gadsden Country Club, he earned the title of Super Senior Champion in 2004. “Coach” Bob was a devoted fan of the Cincinnati Bengals, tracking their scores, stats, and players every step of the way from his computer. He faithfully cheered on his favorite teams; the Bengals, Buckeyes, Bearcats, and Reds. Bob delighted in fun, maintaining his love of adventure and learning throughout his entire life. From summers on Fox Lake in his younger years, to boating with family and friends, to summers at the beach with children and grandchildren, he found joy in time spent near the water. He and Mary Lou shared a love of travel that took them around the world. They never met a stranger, and formed many friendships throughout their travels. They celebrated their 50th anniversary with a Disney trip and cruise alongside their children and grandchildren, and just last year celebrated an extraordinary 70 years of marriage. Bob was a gem of a person who thoroughly appreciated all that life gave him. Even in his final chapter, he continued making friends with his CenterWell and Gentiva caregivers, his church Care Team, and the special visitors who surrounded him with love. He expressed how thankful he was to be at home. Bob was grateful that he received compassionate care from his loving family and many great friends. Bob (Gramps, Babs, Bengal Bob) Babros truly embodied the words of Psalm 23 and lived as though every day was a gift. His favorite song was “What a Wonderful World.” He brought light, laughter, encouragement, and unconditional love to all of us. And what a wonderful world it was, because he was in it. Funeral arrangements will be held on Saturday February 28th at 12:30 pm (Visitation). Mass following at 1:00 pm at St. James Catholic Church Gadsden, Al. Graveside service will be following mass at Williams Southside Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. James Catholic Church.

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Robert "Bob" J Babros

August 11, 1932 - February 19, 2026