Reverend Bob Philbeck, age 79 of Forest City

Reverend Bob Philbeck, age 79 of Forest City, died Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Bob was born November 20, 1945, in Rutherford County and was a son of the late Chivous and Bernice Champion Philbeck.

Bob grew up in Forest City and graduated from the public schools before enlisting in the US Navy serving aboard the destroyer, the USS Towers during the Vietnam war. He began his working career for the Town of Forest City both as a police officer and later a fireman.

Bob attended Fruitland Bible College, and Gardner-Webb College before graduating from Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX. Bob served several churches in North Carolina prior to being called to pastor Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church where he is a member and served for 13 years until his retirement.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Jed Drummond, his son-in-law, Russell Stribling, his brother-in-law, Donald Spratt, and his nephew, Michael Philbeck.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Nancy Millwood Philbeck, his daughters, Tammy Philbeck Conner and husband Larry of Forest City, Shelley Philbeck Lafone and husband Scott of Taylorsville, and Kelly Philbeck Stribling of Columbus, his brothers, David Philbeck and wife Gretta of Rutherfordton, Danny Philbeck and wife Debbie of Inman, SC, his sister, Cynthia Philbeck Spratt of Ellenboro, 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren and one expectant great-grandchild.

The funeral was held March 8 at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church with Rev. Stephen Matheny and Rev. Steven Cooper officiating. Mr. Chase Breeden officiated at the graveside. Military Honors were accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.

Memorials may be made to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 397 Mt. Pleasant Church Rd., Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com.

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.