Barbara "Bobbie" Ellis Scarbrough

Barbara “Bobbie” Scarbrough (Ellis) peacefully passed away surrounded by her family on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the age of 77.

Born on October 30, 1947, in Petersburg, Virginia, Bobbie was the second of five daughters of the late Leo Thomas Ellis and Laura Louise Ellis. Known for her deep faith and loving heart, Bobbie dedicated her life to family, faith, and the care of others.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William “Bill” Odell Scarbrough, Jr., with whom she shared many cherished years.

Bobbie is survived by her son, Michael Manuel (Arianna); grandsons, Spencer Manuel (Sterling) and Walker Manuel; and her sisters, Velvie Holland (Wendell), Nancy Saul (Doug), and Vickie Johnson (Neil). She was also an aunt to several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, LaDonna Casaday (Beryl).

Children were Bobbie’s greatest joy in life. Her love for her son, Michael, was boundless, and that love only grew with the arrival of her grandsons, Spencer and Walker, who affectionately called her “Nana.” They brought her immeasurable happiness, and she treasured every moment with them.

Bobbie spent 34 years serving at Mercer University, where she guided generations of students with patience, wisdom, and care as they navigated their path to independence. For many years, she and her husband, Bill, also shared their love and faith with the youngest members of Vineville Baptist Church, joyfully teaching Mission Friends together. In recent years, Bobbie found a spiritual home at Ingleside Baptist Church, where she was an active and cherished member for the last five years.

Bobbie will be remembered for her spirit and her gift for nurturing those around her, especially children. Her legacy of loyalty, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Ingleside Baptist Church, 834 Wimbish Rd, Macon, GA 31210. Burial will be private. The family will greet family and friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Special Olympics of Central Georgia, Area 7, 6801 Mosely Dixon Road, Macon, Georgia 31220-9518, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate, or the donor’s personal choice.

Hart’s Mortuary and Cremation Center, 765 Cherry Street, Macon, GA 31201 has charge of arrangements.