Bobbie Dean Ingle

Bobbie Dean Ingle, 93, a cherished member of the Shelby community and devoted family man, departed this life on Feb. 4, 2026, in his beloved hometown of Shelby, North Carolina. Born on July 17, 1932, Bobbie's life was a testament to service, dedication, and love. His formative years in Shelby shaped a character marked by unwavering commitment to both his nation and his community.

Bobbie's distinguished military service in the United States Navy, where he proudly served aboard the USS Enterprise during the Korean War, defined his early journey. Following his military tenure, he embarked on a commendable career with the United States Postal Service, from which he retired after three decades of diligent service. His dedication did not cease with retirement, as he continued to support his community through his roles at Cleveland Funeral Services, where he served as an ambassador, and Alston Bridges, contributing his time and effort to various endeavors.

A man of faith, Bobbie was an esteemed member of Zion Baptist Church, where his voice resonated in harmony as he sang in the choir, reflecting his deep-rooted belief and connection to his faith community. His presence was a source of inspiration, drawing many to the warmth and generosity that characterized his spirit.

Beyond his professional and spiritual commitments, Bobbie engaged wholeheartedly in the myriad of activities that enriched his life and those around him. He relished his time spent as an umpire for numerous local sports, fostering community engagement and camaraderie through athleticism. A member of the Lions Club in Shelby and the American Legion Post 82, he was dedicated to serving his community in a multitude of ways. Bobbie took particular joy in volunteering at various events, always ready to lend a helping hand, embodying the spirit of community service. Bobbie was also inducted into the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Hall of Fame in 2002.

His passions extended to simple pleasures—countless mornings were brightened by hearty breakfasts at The Pancake House, shared with his fellow members of the Class of 1952. These moments of connection with friends and family were a source of joy for Bobbie, who treasured the precious time spent with loved ones.

Bobbie leaves behind a loving family that includes his daughter Debra Denton of Lawndale, NC; his sons Nick Ingle and wife Donna of Shelby, NC, Joel Ingle of Rockingham, NC, Eddie Ingle of Supply, NC, Brian Walker and wife Tammy of Forest City, NC; and Julie Pearson and husband Terry of Shelby, NC. He is also remembered fondly by his brother Ronnie Ingle and wife Laura of Raleigh, NC, and his sister Linda Schilling and husband Bob of Columbia, SC. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. A very special bond existed with his granddaughter Michele Walker and great-grandson Braeden Bostic, a connection that will forever be cherished.

Bobbie is reunited in spirit with those who preceded him in death, including his beloved wives Doris Tate Ingle and Sandra Martin Ingle, his parents Forest Joel Ingle and Minnie Ford Ingle, as well as his brothers Rochele Ingle, Roscoe Ingle, and Joel Ingle Jr., and his sisters Beatrice Hamrick, Hazel Wheelus, Louise Parker, and Nell Bradley.

A visitation will be held on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Zion Baptist Church, followed by a funeral service at 5:30 PM. Bobbie will be laid to rest on February 7, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Zion Baptist Church in Shelby, NC.  

In honoring the life of Bobbie Dean Ingle, we celebrate a legacy woven with threads of service, devotion, and unwavering love for family and community. He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit and the impact he made will resonate through the lives he touched for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Zion Baptist Church, 525 W Zion Church Rd, Shelby, NC 28150 or to VIA Health Partners founded as Hospice Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby NC 28150.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Bobbie Dean Ingle, please visit the flower store.

A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc.