Robert Edward “Hobbs” Poteat, 77, of Drexel, N.C., passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Charlotte following a brief illness.
Born in Burke County, N.C., on April 14, 1948, he was a son of the late Charlie Edward “Pat” Poteat and Beatrice Robbins Poteat.
Robert was a member and class president of the 1966 graduating class of Drexel High School and later earned his bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University.
Robert was a member of the First Baptist Church of Morganton and retired from Drexel Heritage Furniture after 35 years of service. He was the third generation of his family to work at Drexel Heritage, following in the footsteps of his father, Pat, and his grandfather, John.
In his free time, he was an avid church and industrial league softball and basketball player, and he loved hiking in the mountains with his dog, particularly in the rugged terrain of Linville Gorge and along the cooling waters of Wilson Creek.
Robert was also a die-hard fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, going back to their days in Brooklyn, and of the Washington Commanders, better known as the Redskins.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 54 years, Rebecca Myrick Poteat; brothers, Johnny Poteat (Jane) and Bill Poteat (Dinah); nephew, Trey Hamilton Ward (Lyn); nieces, Caroline Poteat and Jennifer Poteat (Dr. Jordan Ellis), and a great-niece, Margot Avery Ellis.
The family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m., Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, at Sossoman Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with the Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grow With Drexel, PO Box 177, Drexel, NC 28619.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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I was an only child, my birthday is three days after Robert’s. He use this reason to treat me as a pest of a little sister in school. He will truly will be missed. Thanking of all the family with prayers and love. Ann
Sorry for your loss Becky. Robert has meant alot to me over the years. I'll miss seeing him around the Drexel area.
I am so sorry to hear of Robert's passing. My brother and I grew up with the Poteat boys and fondly remember the nice times we had with Robert and his loving family. Robert was a role model for many and always had time for others. I am so sorry to hear this news; Becky, and please know I am lifting you up and his brothers and their families in prayer in the days ahead. Blessings.
So to hear about Robert sending prayers to all the family Robert will be missed. RIP HOBBS until we meet again
Robbie was one of the greatest men that I have ever known. He was kind, honest and caring. I enjoyed hiking and attending ballgames together. I consider myself very fortunate that he was my friend.
Prayers for the family.
Robbie was a very special person and will be missed by so many people. Prayers for you and family Becky.