Hobart Francis Markham

Hobart Francis Markham went to be with the Lord on January 7, 2026. He is survived by his son, Nick Markham; daughter-in-law, Patricia Markham; grandson, Martin Shane Markham and his wife, Donna Markham; great-grandson, Jakob Reid Markham; nephew, David Markham; niece, Mary Lee Casey and her husband, Donald Casey; and niece, Julie Atkins.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary LaVera Markham; sisters, Geraldine Markham and Elizabeth Wright; brothers, Arthur Leonard Markham and Harold Ray Markham; daughter-in-law, Jewel Martin Markham; and great-grandson, Coby Lane Markham.

Hobart was born in Botetourt County, Virginia, the son of Arthur Lee Markham and Mary Helen Overstreet Markham. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, serving in Naval Aviation in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was the manager of Johnson’s Department Store for many years and later worked as a shipping clerk for Bunker Hill Beef for eight years. Hobart had two lifelong passions: playing bluegrass music with his friends and making and restoring furniture. He last played with his band at Gross’s Apple Orchard Harvest Festival at the age of 91. His handcrafted furniture can be found in many homes throughout Bedford and the surrounding areas.

He was a strong Christian and was a member of Bedford Baptist Church, where he served in the choir and frequently played guitar and sang during services alongside his friend, Donnie Morris.

Visitation will take place at Bedford Baptist Church on January 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service immediately following at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be held immediately following the service at Greenwood Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, New York 10306.

Tharp Funeral Home Crematory, Bedford, is assisting the family.