Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

09/26/1941 – 03/02/2024

Cicero Robert “Bob” Graybeal II passed away at his home in Johnson City, Tenn., on Saturday, March 2, 2024. Bob was the son of the late Kenneth Wayne Graybeal and Jonnie M. Graybeal and was born in Banner Elk, N.C.

Bob graduated from Science Hill High School in Johnson City, Tenn., and attended the University of Tennessee and Milligan College. Bob also served in the U.S. Army where he spotted his late wife, Bernadette Barron, on day one. They married in Aberdeen, Md., and eventually moved back to Tennessee.

Bob and his family lived for many years in the big blue farmhouse in Fall Branch, a time which he remembered fondly, saying it was the “best living he ever did!” Bob owned and operated Midas Muffler in Kingsport, Tenn., and spent many years underneath cars and tinkering in the garage and loved to talk about building his T-bucket hot rod and its fast, smooth ride! In his later years, Bob worked for W.W. Taxi Company in Johnson City, where he made many friends and loved to share countless cab stories!

In retirement, he spent his final years happily caring for his flower gardens at home, which he was always proud to show off. He always enjoyed visits from family and friends and lively conversations!

Bob is survived by his beloved daughters, Melissa L. Graybeal of Atlanta, Ga., and Daphne Graybeal Seybert, her husband, Shane, and two grandsons, Samuel and Sawyer Seybert, all of Loganville, Ga. Bob shared an especially close bond with his sister, Vickie Cole of Elizabethton, Tenn., who he lovingly called “Victory Lane.” He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth W. Graybeal and his wife, Mary, of Athens, W.Va., four nieces, three great-nephews, and three great-nieces. In addition to his family, he was blessed with a special friendship with Rye Pierce, whom he loved like a son. He and Rye would speak daily and pontificate on the mysteries of the world!

A graveside service to celebrate the life of Cicero Robert “Bob” Graybeal II will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, March 8, at Happy Valley Memorial Park with Pastor Mike Abel officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by VFW Boone Dam. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery at 1:45 p.m.

The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff, nurses and doctors at the VA Mountain Home Health Care in Johnson City and Meals on Wheels for the excellent care provided over the years. Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers may make donations in memory of Bob Graybeal to Meal on Wheels. Online condolences may be shared with the family and viewed on our website at www.hathawaypercy.com.

Hathaway-Percy Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to serve the Graybeal family. Office (423) 543-5544