September 3, 1943 ~ December 8, 2023 (age 80)

Roberta Jeanne Taylor, lovingly and professionally known as Bobbie, died December 8, 2023, in Houston, TX, at age 80. Bobbie’s health had steadily declined after she suffered a stroke in July of 2020. She is survived by her son Geoff Fieldbinder, daughter Lara Fieldbinder, and granddaughter Frances Steen.

Bobbie was born September 3, 1943, in Elkhart, IN to Robert and Emma Ocker. A gifted child, she had an inquisitive spirit, and stood out from her peers. She was accomplished in both the violin and piano, as well as drawing. As a young girl, Bobbie loved to read and to sing old folk songs. Her love of her childhood dog, Skipper, created a special place in her heart for future fur babies.

A brilliant student, Bobbie earned a degree in anthropology from Indiana University where she graduated with honors. As a member of the university orchestra, she was invited to travel to Europe to play the violin.

In 1962, Bobbie married her childhood sweetheart and had two children, whom she adored; the marriage ended in divorce in 1973.

Bobbie remarried in 1982, moving with her second husband and children to Houston for a fresh start. After three years, the marriage ended, but Bobbie stayed in Houston, where she created a rooted and full life for herself.

Professionally, Bobbie excelled in Houston’s medical sales industry, working for LabCorp and Roche, the major companies in diagnostic and advanced testing. As a Senior Product Specialist, she was respected by her peers, and was the go-to person for all things automated. Bobbie’s job allowed her to travel and work independently, conditions that suited her free and creative spirit.

Bobbie loved the power of words and was a voracious reader—her happy place was the Brazos Bookstore in Houston. She was fascinated by all subjects and genres, from history to cooking to murder mysteries. She loved meeting new people and appreciated beauty, culture, and good food.

In her later years, she developed a keen appreciation for old manuscripts and maps, and for tracing her ancestry. Bobbie also found comfort in gardening, particularly drawn to the wild and untamed English-style gardens that perhaps reflected her own spirit.

Although there were bumps and heartaches, Bobbie lived the life she wanted. Her passing leaves a hole in our hearts. She will be sorely missed.

Arrangements were under the care of Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514.