Robert E. Grubbs, affectionately known as “Bob,” was born on October 4, 1933, in Harrison, Ohio, passed peacefully into eternity to be with Jesus on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in Harrison, Ohio. Bob was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose larger-than-life personality touched the hearts of many.
Bob dedicated a significant portion of his life to education, teaching at Xavier University and later at William Henry Harrison High School. His vivacious spirit and zeal for learning made every classroom he entered a place of inspiration and growth. He nurtured curiosity and wisdom in his students, always eager to share knowledge and the love of Jesus with everyone he encountered. Bob had a unique gift for connecting with people; he never knew a stranger and relished the opportunity to converse with others. Whether it was a child in his classroom or a neighbor on the street, his lively humor and warm presence left an indelible mark on those around him.
His military service in the United States Army during the Vietnam era shaped his character and fueled his commitment to community. After his service, he embraced life with an unyielding love for family and expressiveness in sharing memories. He married the love of his life, Emma Boston, on July 23, 1977, at the Harrison Church of Christ on Sunset Avenue in Harrison, Ohio. Bob found joy in singing, spending time with friends, and basking in the love of his family. He was a member of the First Church of Christ of Greendale, Indiana.
Bob’s love for his family was profound. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Emma Grubbs (nee Boston), who was his partner in life’s journey. He leaves behind his beloved sons, the late Eric Grubbs and William “Billy” Grubbs, his beloved daughters, Vicky (Don) Bowers and Toni Praleikas. The joy of his life extended to his grandchildren: Adam (Savannah) Praleikas, Amanda Ullman, Samantha Grubbs, and Alicia Grubbs, along with his treasured great-grandchildren, Ava, Quentin, Ariel, and Mila Praleikas, Tori, Evet, and Jaret, and Savannah, Caleb, and Bentley.
Bob’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the values of love, kindness, and faith that he instilled in his family and friends. He is also mourned by the memories of those who have passed before him, including his son, Eric Grubbs, his father, his mother Emma Grubbs (nee Sumser), his brothers Gene Grubbs and Clyde “Sonny” Grubbs, and his sister, Katherine Vaught.
Bob’s journeys through life will culminate in a Celebration of Life on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Tom Taylor officiating, with military honors provided by the United States Army and Harrison Honor Guard, all at Jackman Hensley Funeral Home located at 215 East Broadway Street in Harrison, Ohio. Family and friends are encouraged to gather as they honor a man who devoted his life to loving others and spreading joy. He will be interned at Glen Haven Cemetery in Harrison, Ohio.
While Bob may no longer walk among us, his spirit will remain vibrant in the hearts of those who cherished him. May we all carry forward the lessons he imparted through his love for Jesus, his unwavering laughter, and his passion for life.
Memorials are suggested to be made in Bob Grubbs’ memory to Dearborn County Veterans Service Office, 165 Mary Street, #100, Lawrenceburg, Indiana 47025.