Bobby Gene Pilkington (Bob, Sunshine, Grandfather), age 87, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2026, at his home in Smithfield. Born July 29, 1939, in Johnston County, he was a son of the late Luther and Myrtle Pilkington. He is preceded in death by his son, Robert Steven Pilkington, and brother, Tom Pilkington.

Bobby was a dedicated member of Whitley United Methodist Church for over 50 years until it dissolved two years ago, and he and Georgia became a part of Family Community Church. Bobby was passionate about music and could be found singing or humming along to his favorite songs at any given time, sometimes driving his family crazy! He was a loyal member of the church choir and a former member of the Johnston County Chorus.

Bobby graduated from Smithfield High School, then continued his education by completing an apprenticeship to become a machinist, starting his extensive career working in engineering at Eaton for 20 years. Bobby then fulfilled his lifelong dream of starting his own business by creating Tarheel Tooling and serving as President for 47 years. Bobby spent countless hours pouring his heart into his company, so much so that he worked the day before he died. He thoroughly enjoyed mentoring and working alongside "the guys" at Tarheel Tooling over the years.

Anytime Bobby wasn't at "The Shop,” he could be found spending time with his family. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and was determined to attend all of their special events. Sunday lunches at Mudder and Sunshine's house became a weekly tradition that we will continue to cherish. You could often catch him sitting back admiring his family and saying to Mudder, "Can you believe we started all of this?" He was so proud of his family and would boast about their achievements. Bobby and Georgia were happily married for 67 years. Their love, dedication, and commitment to each other are an inspiration to all.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel at Parrish Funeral Home. The family will receive friends and family for visitation one hour prior to the service, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife and high school sweetheart, Georgia Price Pilkington; son Gregory Allen Pilkington and wife Melissa; grandchildren: Rebecca Pilkington Marrow and husband Thomas, Mary Catherine Allen and husband Brandon, and Kaylie Pilkington Dowless and husband Josh; great-grandchildren: Mary Claire Allen, Holden Price Allen, Savannah Anne Marrow, Lincoln Gregory Dowless, Collins Elizabeth Dowless, and Millie Cate Allen; sister, Jane Batten; brother, Charles Pilkington and wife Denise; and daughter-in-law, Cristy Pilkington.

Flowers are welcome, or donations can be made to the Johnston County Chorus, PO Box 1731, Smithfield, NC 27577.