Bobby J. HilbertMelbourne, FloridaBobby J. Hilbert was born on Aug. 21, 1931 in Johnson City, Tenn.  He passed away on September 11, 2017 at the age of 86 at his home in Suntree (Melbourne), Florida. After his schooling, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served for more than 20 years at various stations, including Iceland, Germany, Texas, Florida, Colorado and in Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. During his career, he did pioneering work on the nation's Space Reconnaissance Program (spy satellites).  He retired with the rank of Lt. Colonel. After retirement from the Air Force, he continued to work on space-related projects at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Patrick Air Force Base. Some of the companies and projects were for General Dynamics, Convair, RCA, General Electric, and CSR. He and Dartha lived on Merritt Island where they cared for his father-in-law for many years. They moved to Suntree (Melbourne) Florida in 1996. For many years they were members of the Episcopal Church (St. Luke's and Holy Trinity) and in 2004 joined Faith "Viera" Lutheran Church. Bobby loved volunteering and was active at their churches. He was also active in the Suntree Community Homeowner's Association for many years - he was even awarded the Suntree Person of the Year for 2016. His hobbies included reading, Bible study, some golfing in retirement, and volunteering. He was a dedicated husband and was married to his loving wife, Dartha for 45 years. Dartha preceded him in death on January 25, 2017. He was also predeceased by his parents, Charles Robert Hilbert and Rose Hilbert of Johnson City, TN. He is survived by his daughter Diane C. McDaniel of Lake Kiowa, Texas, Sister in Law, Bonnie Lynch Evans of Dallas, Texas and his good friend Bobby McDaniel of Lake Kiowa, Texas. The worship service and committal will be at Faith "Viera" Lutheran Church, 5550 Faith Dr. Rockledge Florida, 32955, on Sept. 19th at 1 pm. Interment will be immediately following at the church columbarium and then by a reception in the Fellowship Hall.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Faith "Viera" Lutheran Church.