Bobby Lynn Novotny

Bobby Lynn Novotny, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, went home to be with his Lord on January 4, 2026, at the age of 73. Bobby’s life was a gift to all who knew him, marked by laughter, service, and an unwavering love for people.

Bobby was born on April 30, 1952, in Ennis, Texas, the eldest son of Ladis and Evelyn Novotny. He graduated from Ennis High School, where he was active in football, Student Council, and the National Honor Society. He attended Navarro Community College and later graduated Cum Laude from Texas A&M University.

Bobby began his professional career as a Geophysicist with Exxon USA, spending three years conducting research and exploration around the world. While living in Houston, he met and married the love of his life, Becky Barker Novotny. The next year, Bobby and Becky moved to Dallas, where he began his 33-year career with Tektronix, Inc. Bobby never met a stranger, so it is no surprise that he became one of Tektronix’s most successful Sales Engineers, advancing through multiple levels of management. As his sons grew up and became more active in their own middle school years, he created a new role for himself as an Account Specialist within the defense industry so that he could spend more time with his family.

Bobby was a devoted member of First Baptist Church Garland for 47 years. During that time, he served faithfully, teaching Children’s Sunday School for many years and later teaching in their Youth Ministry.

Bobby enjoyed woodworking and had a remarkable ability to repair or at least “Aggie Engineer” almost anything. He especially loved rebuilding his 1969 Corvette and his old Ford truck. Whenever someone was in a bind and needed help, Bobby was the man who would drop everything to show up with tools in hand.

The proud father of two sons, Bobby spent countless years coaching and assisting with their soccer, baseball, and basketball teams, and he loved volunteering at their schools. One of his greatest gifts was his ability to make everyone feel important, valued, and loved. He embraced life fully and found joy wherever he went. Time with family was what he cherished most. Traveling with family and friends brought him immense happiness and created a lifetime of treasured memories. He was deeply devoted to his wife, sons, and later, his beloved grandchildren—who brought him more joy than Disney World ever could!

Bobby is survived by his wife, Becky Barker Novotny; his sons, Brad Alan Novotny (Becca Ann Wahl Novotny) and Brian Novotny (Ashley Marie Theriot Novotny); and his six grandchildren, Selah Grace Novotny, Noelle Katherine Novotny, Karis Joy Novotny, Jericho Jane Novotny, Hezekiah Clay Novotny, and Lydia Tulip Novotny. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Bill Barker (Beverly Barker); sister-in-law, Susan Barker Moses; Aunt, Henrietta Novotny; cousins, Brenda Devore (Stuart Devore) and Mike Novotny; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ladis Novotny and Evelyn Jurica Novotny, and his brother, Billy Charles Novotny.

Bobby lived out his faith boldly through service, generosity, and love for others. His joyful presence will be deeply missed until we are reunited in the presence of our Savior. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held on January 10, 2026, at the MacDonald Activity Center at First Baptist Garland. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 10:00 a.m. All who knew and loved Bobby are invited to join in honoring his life and legacy.

Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Bobby's honor to the First Baptist Church Garland Legacy Fund or the American Cancer Society.