Bobi Malott

Affectionate, determined, and good-humored, Bobi Malott lived a life rich in friends and family. A woman of many interests, Bobi enjoyed the simple things in life, time with those she loved, good music and books, and celebrating special events. In every moment, Bobi ensured her loved ones were supported and never had to face a challenge alone. A devoted daughter, mother, and grandmother, Bobi will long be remembered and so very missed.

It seems fitting that such an uplifting person was born in the middle of one of the most highly charged decades in US history. While the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement resulted in volatile protests, the inventions of the Super Ball and Skate Board reminded us of the importance of play. Women’s skirts grew shorter while men’s hair grew longer, and The Beatles’ “Help” album dominated the airways. With much hope for the future, William “Bill” and Shiela (Snow) Malott welcomed their daughter Roberta Lynn into their hearts and home on March 22, 1967, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The middle of the three Malott children, along with her older sister, Patricia, and younger brother, Ricky, Bobi enjoyed growing up on Swensburg NE. She attended Palmer Elementary, Riverside Middle School, and Creston High School. Bobi had an adventurous spirit and found a fair share of mischief and trouble as a child and teenager. She loved camp, where she earned her nickname, Bobi. Many of the friendships she made during her childhood lasted her entire life. She spent a lot of time at one of her close friend’s home up north near Trufant.

When she was a bit older, she moved with her parents to Ann Street. Most of her adulthood found her living in the north sides of Grand Rapids. Bobi found love a couple of times during her life. While none led to marriage, she was proud to be the mother of three children. Michael, Rebecca, and Brittany were the center of her world, and she dedicated herself to their care. Bobi faced the challenges of being a single mother with determination, and her children never felt as though they were going without. She worked for several years at Sally Beauty Supply, and though they moved several times, she did her best to keep her kids in the same school.

Bobi remained close to her parents and created a home rich in tradition. Like her mother, she enjoyed celebrating every holiday in top fashion, spending, splurging, and making each one memorable. She helped at the kids’ school, coaching the jump rope team and chaperoning field trips. While the kids all had chores and were expected to eat what was placed in front of them. Bobi made sure her home was a welcoming place. Her kids’ friends always felt at home with her and especially enjoyed her cooking, baking, and big selection of cereal. For a time, Bobi even welcomed Kimberly Cuevas into her home, lovingly treating her as another daughter.

While she had a shy side, Bobi was talkative with those she knew and enjoyed many friendships and good relations with her neighbors. She possessed a good sense of humor that was a bit goofy and often sarcastic. Quick with hugs and kisses, she was attentive and encouraging, but she could also be opinionated and stubborn. She wasn’t afraid to voice her opinions.

Like her mother, Bobi had broad interests. She loved to read, mainly romance and mysteries, journaled regularly with very neat penmanship, and loved music. She listened to country music and enjoyed attending annual B93 Birthday Bashes with family and friends. Though she loved country music, her favorite songs were performed by hip hop artist LL CoolJ. Bobi also shared the special gift of canine companionship with her fur friends, Misty and Bear Bear.

Life certainly presented Bobi challenges which led her to live in Georgia and Florida for a time. Though she loved the beauty of these places, after a short time away, she returned to Grand Rapids. Without a doubt, Bobi’s greatest joy was her grandchildren. She cherished every moment they spent together, especially once they were old enough to stay with her for long periods of time. She enjoyed playing games and watching movies together and even taught some of them to cook. Even as her health challenges limited her, she always enjoyed having them with her.

Sadly, Bobi’s health deteriorated over the years. During the last two years, she required additional help, found at several care facilities. Despite the need for support, she often felt frustrated. Fortunately, she was able to move a bit closer to her family, which softened the frustrations during the last months before she passed away on March 9 in Muskegon.

Roberta “Bobi” Malott, age 54 of Grand Rapids, passed away March 9, 2022. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Shiela Malott.

Bobi is survived by her children Michael Malott, Rebecca (Terrell) Kirkland, and Brittany Malott; her “other” daughter, Kimberly Cuevas; grandchildren Mardazia, TJ, Sierrah, Christina, Aliyah, Antonio, and Elija; sister, Patricia (Chris) Swindell; brother, Ricky Malott; as well as other relatives and friends.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to help with expenses.

To read more about Bobi, to share a memory, or to sign her guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com