Bobby Joe Clemons, Sr.
“SNAPPER”
September 18, 1944 - January 19, 2026
“The Steps of a Good Man Are Ordered By the Lord” ~Psalm 37:23

Bobby Joe Clemons, Jr., affectionately known as “Snapper,” was born on September 18, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Cleave Clemons and Jewel McLaughlin Aires. He was subsequently raised with loving care and devotion of his grandparents, Edward “Rim” and Estella McLaughlin.

Bobby obtained his formal education through the Sumpter County School System where he developed a strong work ethic and a determination to excel. This academic foundation contributed to his successful career as a project manager and linesman, the profession he maintained until his retirement.

A man of deep faith and musical passion, Bobby faithfully served as an Exhorter and the First Gentleman in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. His saxophone was his constant companion for his music ministry of praise, and he passionately played as an expression of his devotion to God. He not only looked forward to sharing his musical gift wherever he worshipped, but he also played joyfully at family events.

Bobby was a devoted husband and a loving son-in-law. Known for his generosity, he lovingly treated everyone he encountered with kindness and respect. To know him was to love him.

On Monday, January 19, 2026, Bobby Joe Clemons, Sr. quietly and peacefully transitioned from this earthly life to live eternally with the Lord. “If you miss me from playing down here, come on up to bright Glory, I’ll be playing up there.”

While Bobby Joe Clemons, Sr.’s saxophone playing has ceased, his melody lingers on. His legacy of love and fulfillment of life shall continue through his family, friends, and countless lives he impacted. Loved ones who will honor and cherish his precious memory are his loving wife: the Reverend Doctor Nikki Henry-Clemons; daughter: Cassandra (Calvin) Forehand; sons: Bobby J. Clemons, Jr. and Bokyshtyn Clemons; bonus sons: Terrez Graham, Sr., RonTerrius Cooper, and Robbie Cooper, Jr.; grandchildren: Fasha Porter, Desuanda Clemons, Alexis Clemons, Bryan Clemons, Anyiah Clemons, and Bryson Rich; bonus grandchildren: Terijah Graham and Terrez Graham, Jr.; great-grandchildren: Jalia Laundry, Ariane Shorter, and Trinitee Shorter; sister: Rhonda (Clarence) Robinson Ryan; brothers: William B. (Gloria) Robinson and Reginald K. Robinson; sisters-in-love: Stephanie, Donna, Melonie, and NayTasha Henry; brothers-in-love: Myron (Constance) and Andre Henry; aunt: Ruth Brown; along with a host of sorrowing nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other sorrowing friends.

Preceding Bobby Joe Clemons, Sr. in death were his parents: Cleave Clemons and Jewel McLaughlin Aires; grandparents, Edward “Rim” and Estella Mclaughlin, sister: Pamela D. Aires, and mother-in-love: Avonnette R. Henry.