09/04/2025
Robert Edward Burrage
June 25, 1933 - August 29, 2025
Robert Edward Burrage, affectionately known as “Bob,” age 92, of Savannah, Georgia, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, during his stay at Candler Hospital.
Bob was born on June 25, 1933, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the son of William Jennings Burrage and Bertha Ella Ledford Burrage. Growing up in Chattanooga, Bob was raised with strong values of faith, hard work, and family, which became the foundation of his life. He completed his education, graduating from high school before beginning a lifelong journey of service and dedication.
At a young age, Bob enlisted in the United States military, proudly serving his country for 20 years. His time in uniform shaped his character, instilling in him a deep sense of duty, discipline, and loyalty. Bob’s military service was a point of great pride throughout his life, and he often shared stories of his experiences, offering lessons of resilience, honor, and perseverance. After retiring from the military, Bob embarked on a second career at Gulfstream Aerospace, where he worked for another 20 years. His colleagues remembered him as steady, reliable, and kind-hearted, the sort of man who brought calm and encouragement to any challenge.
On January 30th, 1960, Bob married the love of his life, Ostyneo Laval Jeffers. Together, they built a beautiful marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and love. Their union lasted 52 years until Ostyneo’s passing in July 6th, 2012, a loss that Bob carried with quiet strength. Their bond was a shining example of partnership and commitment, and Bob often spoke of her with deep affection.
Although Bob was a man of few words, those who knew him best understood that his quiet nature held great wisdom. Once he opened up, he had countless stories to tell—about his youth in Tennessee, his years in service, and his adventures in Savannah. He cherished time with his family, and nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by loved ones. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in particular, were the light of his life, and he treasured every moment he spent with them.
Bob was a man of unwavering faith. He expressed his love for God not only in his words but in the way he lived—with kindness, humility, and generosity. He never spoke harshly of others and had a gentle spirit that left an impression on everyone who met him. His quiet strength, devotion to his family, and steadfast belief in God’s grace were guiding lights for those fortunate enough to know him.
Bob is survived by his loving son, Thomas Shadle (JoAnn); his cherished grandchildren Dustin Shadle (Maddison), Derek Shadle (Amanda), and Brianna Shadle (Joe); and his beloved great-grandchildren Jaxson Shadle, McKenna Shadle, Lorenzo Shadle, and Baby Louie Shadle. He is also survived by his sister, Shirley Burrage Yarbrough (Ronnie); niece Rhonda Yarbrough Pentry; brother-in-law Jim Wilson; and many other nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Bertha Burrage; his siblings Royce Burrage (Lois), Betty Lou Burrage Wilson, William “Bill” Burrage (Shirley), and Frances Burrage Reed (Bill).
A funeral service honoring Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Families First Funeral Care, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, Georgia. The family will receive friends beginning at 12:00 p.m., followed by the service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Hillcrest Abbey West Cemetery, where Bob will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Ostyneo.
Bob’s life was one of service, faith, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion to his country, his family, and his God. To know him was to know a man of quiet strength and enduring kindness. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he loved, and his influence will continue to guide his family for generations to come.
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