Robert Lee “Bob” Qualls Jr., 90, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 10, 2026, entering eternal rest with his Lord and Savior, surrounded by the love and comfort of his wife. Born November 4, 1935, in Akron, Ohio, Bob was the son of the late Robert L. Qualls Sr. and Edmonia Samuels Qualls.

After attending Akron Public Schools, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952. A Korean War-era veteran, he proudly served his country for four years, including assignments in Germany and France, before receiving an honorable discharge in 1956.

Following his military service, Bob pursued higher education through the GI Bill at the University of Akron, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Education.

Bob devoted his professional career to education, beginning as a teacher in Akron Public Schools. He later relocated to Columbus, Ohio, where he continued his career with Columbus City Schools, ultimately retiring from Buckeye Middle School. A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, Bob was an avid reader who valued knowledge and the opportunity to share it with others. His commitment to education and years of service remain an enduring part of his legacy.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 40 years, Belinda Lewis Qualls; his sons, Jonathan Patrick (Deana Lennox) Qualls of Columbus, Ohio, and Loren (Stephanie Arble) Qualls of Merced, California; and his daughter, Paula Qualls (Leonard) Mitchell of Wadsworth, Ohio. His legacy also lives on through 10 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and one great-great- grandchild, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and loved ones. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Robert Lewis of San Francisco, California.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his eldest son, Brett Marlo Qualls; his sisters, Thelma (Ernest) Knight and Pauline (Thomas) Penn; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Sherman Lewis Sr. and Aretha P. Lewis; his brother-in-law, Sherman Lewis Jr.; a niece; and several nephews.

The family extends its sincere appreciation to the medical teams at Veterans Affairs and Fairhope Hospice in Lancaster, Ohio, for their compassionate care and support. Caring Cremation® has taken place through Frank E. Smith Funeral Home.

A memorial service honoring Bob’s life will be held for family and friends at a later date.

The Frank E. Smith Funeral Home is honored to serve the Qualls family.