1956-2026
Robert E. “Bob” Hollis, age 70, of Pine Bluff, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 25, 2026 after a brief battle with cancer. He never met a stranger, and his easy smile and laid-back personality welcomed anyone he met.
Born January 23, 1956 at Pine Bluff, he was the son of the late Cal and Ruth Bylander Hollis. He graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1974. Bob earned both an undergraduate and master’s degree in history from Arkansas Tech University.
He owned Hazel’s Bottle Shop for 13 years and was an adjunct teacher at SEARK College. Bob later worked for the Arkansas Correctional School District until his retirement in 2024.
His love of history and the Pine Bluff community led him to serve on the board of the Heckatoo Heritage Foundation and as a member of the Civitan Club.
Bob loved Blues music and served on the board of the Port City Blues Society. He was the first face that people would see at the Wednesday night blues jam and other concerts held at RJ’s Sports Bar and Grill in downtown Pine Bluff.
Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Barbara Ann Owen Hollis; two daughters, Carrie Hollis and Ruth Hollis (James Bayird); stepson, Trey Carter (Hannah); four grandchildren, Colin Carter, Mason Carter, Arianna Parker, and Noah Bayird.; a brother, Mack Hollis (Susan); two sisters, Betty Garman and Mary Cal Hollis (Steve Onclet); along with many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Friday, May 1, 2026, beginning at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Ralph Robinson & Son. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to RJ’s Sports Bar and Grill, 128 S. Main Street, Pine Bluff, at 5:15 p.m. for a celebration of Bob’s life.
Memorials may be made to Port City Blues Society, c/o Akita Morishita, 8 Sawgrass Court, Little Rock, AR 72212.
