Robert Earnest Batchelder

Robert Earnest Batchelder 71 of Josephine, Alabama died Friday April 24th, 2026 at Baldwin Health in Foley Alabama. Robert was born May 25, 1954 in Kingsport Tennessee to the late Stephens Batchelder and Dorothy Patton Batchelder and was one of 3 children.

Robert is preceded in death by Stephens Batchelder, his father, Dorothy Patton Batchelder, his mother and Stephens Holmes Batchelder his brother.

Robert is survived by Leah Horton Batchelder his wife of 13 years, his sister Betsey Batchelder of San Antonio, Texas, his sister-in-law, Amelia Batchelder, niece Tara Batchelder Skorpka and son Cameron, niece Britney Batchelder Sullins husband Ben, son Odin and daughter Iris.

Robert served in the Army as part of the 101st Airborne Division. He was an airplane pilot and a boat captain working as a charter boat captain, captain of large oil supply vessels, as well as captain of fishing charters and dolphin watch cruises.

Robert’s adventurous spirit led him to travel many countries including Africa as a boat captain, St Thomas as a pilot for Ziggy Marley’s band and a cargo pilot delivering electronics into Mexico. He had wonderful stories to share and was fluent in several languages. He loved making people laugh, cooking and sharing meals with friends and family. He affectionately called it “lovin from the oven”.

Robert served as a deacon at Josephine Baptist Church and was an active member for many years. His laughter and love will be greatly missed by his friends and family.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday May 30th at Josephine Baptist Church at 11:00 am. Everyone is welcome.