Bobby Gunnin

Gaffney, SC - - Mr. Bobby Leon Gunnin, 77, of 646 McKowns Mountain Road, Gaffney, SC, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the residence of his son.

Following a cancer diagnosis, Mr. Gunnin was brought home to be surrounded by the love of his family and was cared for with devotion by his son, daughter-in-law, brother, and sister-in-law.

Born in Gaffney on April 28, 1948, he was the son of the late Virginia Lucille Gunnin Spencer. Though born to his mother, he was primarily raised by his grandmother, Jessie Byrd—affectionately known as "Granny"—who instilled in him the values of hard work, compassion, and service to others that defined his life.

Even as a young boy, Bobby's servant's heart was evident. With a basket fastened to the front of his bicycle, he rode throughout the community delivering items to elderly neighbors and those unable to leave their homes.

Mr. Gunnin retired from Bonitz Contracting, where he began working in 1967. Through decades of dedication, he became a respected foreman and mentor, teaching many men not only how to build structures, but also how to build character. He loved building in the community he called home and formed lifelong friendships on every job site.

He was a member of the Elks Lodge and of the Baptist faith. He was an avid Gaffney Indians, Carolina Panthers, and South Carolina Gamecocks fan, and he also enjoyed fishing and NASCAR.

Mr. Gunnin was preceded in death by his beloved companion of 47 years, Brenda Sue Erwin. Surviving is his devoted son, Lance Eric Gunnin, and his wife, Ashley of Gaffney; two bonus children, Bruce Erwin and his wife Kimberly, and Cynthia Spencer and her husband Bruce, who is also Mr. Gunnin's only surviving sibling. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Ronnie Gunnin, Miles Gunnin, Mike Gunnin, and Charles Raymond Spencer, and one sister, Janice Gunnin Cook.

He was especially proud of his role as "Papa." He is survived by 15 grandchildren: Ava Grace Gunnin; Taylor Hadden; Lane Hadden (Cassidy); Cameron Hadden (Alisha); Justin Spencer (Kelsey); Dillon Spencer; Blake Spencer (Morgan); Katelynn Erwin; Haley Erwin (Wayne); Brandon Teague (Chelsey); Brittany Martin (Brandon); Levi Peeler; Caleb Peeler; and Luke Mullinax. He is also survived by 19 great-grandchildren: Maleia Hadden, Sophia Spencer, and baby boy Spencer, expected in May, Kinsley Wilson, CJ Wilson, Hayden Mullinax, Matthew Mullinax, Nataleigh Mullinax, Aleah Moore, Savannah Teague, Miracle Knight, Brenlynn Teague, Willow Teague, Ashlynn Teague, Aubree Fernanders, Junior Fernanders, Luke Martin, Paislee Martin, and Brianna Martin. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Britnie Marie Hadden.

Also surviving is a special niece, Linda Denise Barentine ("Bubba"), whom he helped raise following the passing of her mother. Her children, Heather Phillips (Nick), Ashley Turner (Becca), Brandon Turner, and Jesse Barentine, along with Heather's children, Declan and Emma Phillips, lovingly knew him as Papa as well.

Mr. Gunnin lived a life marked by loyalty, strength, generosity, and deep devotion to his family. He built more than buildings—he built people. His legacy of love and hard work will continue for generations. In his passing, he wanted us all to remember to be kind, love each other, and "keep your job clean".

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Blakely Funeral Home. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:00 PM in the Blakely Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverend Richard Sellars officiating. Music will be presented by CJ Patterson. Interment will be at Frederick Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Camp Kemo, 7 Medina Court, Suite #215, Columbia, SC 29223 or Meals on Wheels, PO Box 1886, Gaffney, SC 29342.

The family will be at the home of Eric and Ashley Gunnin, 105 Midway Terrace, Gaffney, SC 29341.

An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com

Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, SC