Cover photo for Robert M. Brantly, Sr.'s Obituary
Robert M. Brantly, Sr. Profile Photo

Robert M. Brantly, Sr.

November 23, 1935 — July 8, 2025

Maggie Valley

Robert M. Brantly, Sr.

Robert Mansfield Brantly, Sr., a respected figure and dedicated steward of Florida’s natural resources, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born November 23, 1935, in Florida, Bob’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to the environment and passion for the great outdoors.

With an impressive career spanning 37 years, Bob began as a wildlife officer and worked his way up to end his career as the Executive Director for the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission, during which time he championed conservation efforts and wildlife management initiatives crucial to preserving the state’s ecological wonders. His dedication did not wane upon retirement; for an additional 17 years, he served as the Executive Secretary for the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was a man of many loves and talents. He was an ardent woodworker. His love for nature didn’t just belong to his profession; he enjoyed fishing and hunting. An avid golfer, he once shot a hole in one. Bob’s love for his labrador retrievers, past and present, his loyal companions, was evident in the way he spent time with them, remembering them fondly in his last days.

It was the open road calling to him later in life. Together with his devoted wife, Sandy, they embarked on adventures across the United States, traveling to 49 of the 50 states in their motorhome.

He leaves behind a loving legacy through his family. His beloved wife of 47 years, Sandra Thomas Brantly, stood by him always. Together they raised 2 daughters, Kimberly D. “Kim” Wainwright and Melissa Brantly “Missy” Severson (Major Chris Severson, USMC), son Robert M. Brantly, Jr. (Donna Marie). Bob’s legacy is further adorned by 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren; each a testament to the love and values he imparted.

While Bob has been reunited with those who have passed before him - his father, Fred Brantly; his mother, Zoe Daniel’s Brantly, and his children, Susan Darling Riggs, and Richard L. Brantly, Sr - his spirit will forever resonate within the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Bob believed the best, expected the best and encouraged the best of all of us. If we could all go to sleep at night, having tried to be the best we can be, then we might have achieved what he wished for all of us - to leave our world better than we found it.

No formal service will be held at this time; however, a Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Bradley’s Retreat in Tallahassee, Florida from 5 to 7 PM.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies in support of the Colonel Robert M. Brantly Wildlife Officer of the Year Award and other conservation initiatives. Checks can be made payable to: Foundation for Southeastern Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and mailed to P.O. Box 646, Hartwell, GA 30643. Should you prefer to make an electronic donation, please contact the Foundation at 706-540-5031.

The care of Mr. Brantly has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville, NC. And an online register is available at “Obituaries at www.Wellsfuneralhome.com

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert M. Brantly, Sr., please visit our flower store.

Upcoming Services

Celebration of Life

Saturday, November 22, 2025

5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)

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