Gerald "Bob" Denny

Gerald “Bob” Denny
Mr. Denny passed away at home with family on Tuesday, August 5th , 2025 at age 93 following an extended period of declining health. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley Hill Denny; his son Blake; his son Scott and spouse Monica; his daughter Diana Bowling and spouse Chris; grandchildren Bauer, Lauren, and Abigail Bowling; his sister Susie Beasley; and niece Jodie- Michele McCord.

Bob was born June 24th , 1932 in Nantahala, NC and was the son of William Howard Denny and Eller Dills Denny. He graduated from Otter Creek H.S. in 1950 and continued his education at Gardner-Webb Jr. College before transferring to Western Carolina University, where he received both a Bachelor’s (1954) and a Master’s (1963) degree in Public Education. He later obtained a Specialist in Education degree from the University of Georgia in 1976.

 Bob’s public education career spanned 36 years. Although he later became an administrator, his first job was teaching history and coaching basketball at Nantahala H.S. in the community where he grew up. He worked in public school systems in North Carolina, Georgia, and Alaska and held administrative positions as an Asst. Principal, Principal, Asst. Superintendent, and Superintendent. He said his favorite and most enjoyable position was as Principal of East Hall High School in Hall County, GA from 1967-73.

After retiring in 1992, Bob and Shirley returned to Hall County and built a home on Lake Lanier. They bought a motor home and extensively explored the USA and Canada, and during a trip to Nova Scotia were really surprised to encounter the St. Paul Prime Timers travel group. During his final years, he enjoyed fishing, reading, visiting his family, travelling, volunteering for projects and activities at church, and spoiling his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed watching Atlanta Braves baseball and was an avid fan of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. He also enjoyed an occasional glass of Johnny Walker scotch, puffing on a pipe of Sir Walter Raleigh, peppermint candy, and wooden toothpicks.

Bob was a devoted member of St. Paul United Methodist Church for 56 years, and he faithfully served and supported the church in many ways. Bob also served his country and spent two years in Korea with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. 

Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 16 th , 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Paul United Methodist Church (404 Washington Street, Gainesville, GA). Reverend Bryan Smith will officiate. Visitation with the family will be in the church Fellowship Hall following the service.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Arrangements are in the care of Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501.