It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved founder, Mr. Bob Sealy. A father, grandfather, and a friend to all, Bob was passionate about delivering the very best to anglers and touched countless lives through his decades of unwavering dedication and visionary leadership.
His legacy and spirit will forever be deeply etched in our hearts and continue to be our guiding light. Bob’s contributions have left an indelible mark on our lives. He was more than a business leader; he was a mentor and a beacon of how to love and serve others. Bob faced his battle with cancer with remarkable strength and courage.
A lifelong resident of Rayburn Country, Bob, along with his wife Donna of 48 years, was the beloved owner and operator of Sealy Outdoors. Prior to Sealy Outdoors, Bob served his community as the owner of Piney Point Grocery at Sam Rayburn and as a former real estate sales manager.
In the 1980s, Bob began competing in Bassmaster tournaments which played a pivotal role in the four decades that would follow. Bob dug into his own pocket to get Ray Scott, founder of B.A.S.S. to bring the pros to town and put the Sam Rayburn area on the national fishing map. He was a true pioneer in the fishing community, creating the original hourly big bass tournament event in the 1980s to reward amateur anglers. As the visionary founder of the big bass format and the Big Bass Splash tournaments, Bob attracted thousands of anglers from across the nation, rewarding more $30 million in cash and prizes as of 2024.
Bob’s legacy extends beyond his tournaments. He used his platform to raise millions of dollars for charities such as the Ronald McDonald House and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, reflecting his deep commitment to giving back to the community.
In 2014, Bob’s contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Legends of Outdoors Hall of Fame and then in 2017 inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the fishing world and his dedication to fostering a love for the sport in others.
Bob Sealy’s life was one of passion, innovation, and generosity. He touched the lives of thousands through his work and left an indelible mark on the fishing community he loved so dearly. His legacy will live on through the many lives he enriched and the sport he helped to elevate.
Big Bass Splash founder Bob Sealy dies – Bassmaster
Texas Fishing Legend Bob Sealy Passes Away, I Will Miss My Friend (kicks105.com)