James R. "Bob" DeFriese, 82, of Chickamauga, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, May 31, 2023. He owned Walnut Creek Stables.

Born in Chattanooga, TN to Neil DeFriese & Faye Brady DeFriese. A graduate of Kirkman High School, where he played football.

Upon graduating from high school he joined the Army and was stationed in Germany after to the states he did underwater welding and specialized in sheet metal. He later joined the Local IBEW #175 and retired as a master electrician.

He settled in Chickamauga, GA, where he built his dream of Walnut Creek Stables and was successful. He was of the Baptist faith.

He is predeceased by his parents, Neil DeFriese & Faye Satterwhite; sister, Onolee Boyd; brother, Neil "Spanky" DeFriese and son, Michael DeFriese.

Survivors include his daughter, Michelle 'Missy' (Ron) Smith; sisters, Dorinda (CL) Eldridge, Leanna Rogers, and Donna Kirby; special grandson, Chris (Ashley) Smith; nine grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be officiated by Reverend Ray Williams on Saturday, July 1, 20233 at 6 p.m. at One Accord Community Church, 343 Sweetland Drive, Red Bank, TN 37415.