Roberta Stickney Wise

Roberta "Bobbie" Wise died due to cancer-related complications, Saturday, February 6th at home with her family surrounding her. Bobbie was 68 years old. Born December 5, 1941 in Courtland, New York, she and her family moved to Bartow, Florida in 1956. Bobbie is survived by her husband, William "Buddy" F. Wise, Jr., children, grandchildren, great grandchildren (see below), mother, Phyllis N. Stickney and brother, David A. Stickney (wife, Georgia) and was preceded in death by her father, Robert M. Stickney. After graduating from Summerlin Institute in May of 1959, she began her banking career at Citrus and Chemical Bank where she served in a strong leadership role, mentoring many young bankers as they grew professionally within the organization. She retired in 2006 after 48 years of service. In her role as Senior Vice President/Commercial Lending, Bobbie worked side by side with the late George W. Harris, Jr. , CEO of Citrus and Chemical Bank, and the C & C team to create the strongest independent bank in Polk County. Bobbie married William "Buddy" F. Wise, Jr., June 23, 1965. They joined their hearts together at that time and raised their children Debbie Turbe (Ted), Jerry Wise (Cynthia), Janet Sturn (John), Theresa Schley, Karen McVay and Marvin Wise. Bobbie and Buddy have nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Bobbie was known for her sense of loyalty and love of family and friends for whom she was an inspiration. Bobbie was a member of the Saint Thomas Catholic Church and served as a board member for Peace River Country Club. She also enjoyed her involvement with the Bartow Chamber of Commerce and demonstrated her commitment to the banking industry through active involvement with the National Association of Banking Women. A celebration of Bobbie's life is planned for 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 9th, at the First Presbyterian Church in Bartow, followed by interment at Wildwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 9th. The family will accept flowers and/or donations in Bobbie's name to the Polk County Chapter of the American Cancer Society.