Bobby Ray Durham Sr.

Bobby Ray Durham, Sr. was born in New Haven, CT at Grace New Haven Hospital, on January 3, 1954. He was predeceased by his parents Betty Wylie Durham and Furman Little. On 8/26/89, Bobby married Paula Bellamy and they were married for 21 years before her passing.

Bobby was a faithful member of St. Matthews Unison Free Will Baptist Church where he was baptized and received the Lord as his personal savior. Throughout the years, he served under the guidance of Reverend Bishop Robert J Gay and he enjoyed religious instruction and teachings. Bobby also ensured that his children received the Lord as their personal savior.

Bobby was educated in the New Haven Public School System and later embarked on a lucrative career at Metro-North Railroad. He was employed for 35 years until retirement. After retirement, he joined the administrative staff at Project MORE, Inc.

Bobby won many awards for his athletic abilities, especially in baseball, where he was recognized as a Lynair Walker, Walter “Pop” Smith All-Star for three consecutive years. He was honored for his service to his children, grandchildren, and community youth through coaching for the Lynair Walker, Walter “Pop” Smith Little League for 15 years.

Bobby was a dedicated member of the East Rock Lodge #141 where he served as the House Chairman and Trustee for several years. Additionally, Bobby was an original member of The Connecticut Line Dancers and participated in shows throughout the tri-state area.

B.O.B., as he was affectionately known, lit up every room he walked into with charisma, grace, and style. He thoroughly enjoyed modeling hard work and perseverance for his children and never once complained of being tired. He was a protector and provider and these characteristics were often extended to family and friends. B.O.B. could be counted on during pleasant and challenging times, but always approached challenges with optimism and faith in what he knew the Lord could do.

Bobby Ray Durham Sr. leaves his children to mourn his passing, they include: Sirena Durham, Steve Durham (Percenna), Bobby Ray Durham II and Raychelle Betty Durham, as well as Tyrese Tremont Phillips, and Aaliyah Thomas. Bobby also leaves behind his loving sisters Joyce Durham-Poole (Jerry), and Anita Durham. He was predeceased by his beloved brother David Durham and his beloved sister Carol Durham.

Bobby was also an adored grandfather to Tramaine Goforth, Naomi Goforth, Bobby Ray Durham III, Nylah Durham, Alaina Durham, Roberto Mackay, Carlito Mackay, and Nasir Samuel. Bobby is also survived by several siblings from his father’s side and leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Bobby will also be missed by his good friend, Sheila Tyson, as well as his childhood friends Ronald Brooks, Russell Douglas, Nate Grayson, Carl Hannans, Cordell Pemberton.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday July 8, 2023 at St. Matthews Church, 400 Dixwell Avenue, New Haven, Connecticut at 11am. Condolences maybe expressed at www.colonialfunerals.com