Robert James "Bob" Linn

Robert James Linn, age 73 of Calhoun, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at AdventHealth Gordon. Bob was born on July 27, 1946 to the late James Hurley and Mabel Chastain Linn. He lived his entire childhood in Calhoun, attending Calhoun schools and graduating in the Calhoun High School Class of 1964. He attended Emory University, graduating in 1968 with a degree in English. While at Emory he was active in Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and Barkley Forum Debate team. After teaching at CHS for two years, he went to the University of South Carolina where he earned both Masters and PhD in English, then returned to Calhoun in 1975 as Chairman of the English Department, a position he held until his retirement in 2002. He then taught part time at CHS until 2005. During his career at CHS he assisted Sandra Silvers with Debate and started two student publications, Southwind and New Methods of Construction. He also coached the golf team for several years, winning Region and placing at State. In 1983 he was a State Semi-Finalist for Teacher of the Year and was Star Teacher in 1997. In 1970 Bob married Lee Gardner from Birmingham, whom he had met as a debater at Emory. They were married 50 years this past January. He is also survived by two sons: Gardner, of Missoula, Montana, and Will and his wife Nichol, of Calhoun. Will and Nichol have two children, Clara and James. In 1998 Bob and Lee started The Ridge Books, specializing in antiquarian books, primarily history, literature and music. Bob loved seeking out rare and unusual books and documents and researching their history. During the past few years, Bob had especially enjoyed time with his grandchildren, as well as visiting and hiking in state and national parks. A reception to Celebrate the life of Bob Linn will be conducted at a later date. You may send condolences to the family at www.thomasfuneralhomecalhoun.com Thomas Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Robert James “Bob” Linn.