Bobby Stokes: A Legacy of Faith, Service, and Impact

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - The word “legacy” is often thrown around. People always ask: What impact are you having on those around you?

For the most part, those who have left a legacy didn’t set out to create one. They showed up. They worked hard. They were passionate about helping others.

This is the story of a Northeast Louisiana educator who offers lessons in life and purpose. In the process, he has touched thousands.

“Who Ya Rootin’ For? OCS”

Listen carefully at ballparks and stadiums across Louisiana, and you’ll hear it—a chant that has become legendary:

“Who you rooting for? OCS!”

A voice. A symbol. School spirit. Strength. And most of all, faith.

“I had no idea that Mister Stokes was the starter of that,” one observer once said.

For Bobby Stokes, this simple phrase has become his calling card—a way to unite a community and inspire generations of students. But it nearly didn’t happen.

“Jamie does not like for me to do ‘who you rooting for,’” Bobby recalls with a smile. “She thinks my heart will mess up. But I overruled her.”

Even in his commitment to the chant, Bobby’s character shines through—a man whose passion sometimes outweighs caution, driven by a desire to lift others up.

A Man Woven Into the Fabric of OCS

You can’t tell Ouachita Christian School’s 51-year history without Bobby Stokes.

“When you look around this school, there’s just legacy,” says those who know him best. “People think of OCS, they think of Bobby Stokes.”

Over 33 years, Bobby served as an administrator, teacher, coach, and—most importantly—a Christian role model.

“He’s one of the most selfless individuals I’ve ever met,” one colleague reflected. “No matter what, he’s thinking of someone else.”

Bobby’s impact extended across the athletic programs at OCS. As the Eagles competed for state championships, they had a teammate they could lean on—a six-foot-nine gentle giant whose presence was impossible to miss.

“He’s shown us how to show up for one another,” one athlete noted. “It’s something we learned on the basketball team, but it carries into life.”

From Bison to Eagle: A Life of Passion

At Harding University, a younger Bobby Stokes served as Bobby the Bison—loud, proud, and full of spirit. When he picked up his first megaphone at OCS in the early nineties, that same energy never faded.

But Bobby’s influence went far deeper than volume.

“Coaching is more than just wins or losses on the scoreboard,” one of his players reflected. “He taught us that coaching is about winning hearts for Jesus.”

Bobby understood something fundamental: leadership isn’t measured in championships alone. It’s measured in the lives you change, the hearts you touch, and the values you instill.

When the Unthinkable Happened

In July 2022, everything changed. Stokes’ visits to the hospital became more frequent than his trips to the court.

First came a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Then, in December 2022, a stroke. Doctors discovered a brain mass.

That week before Christmas, medical professionals sent him home on hospice.

“That was tough,” Bobby said simply.

“It’s been hard because this is a friend, this is a brother,” echoed those who knew him.

But even facing his greatest challenge, Bobby Stokes remained a source of inspiration. The OCS community knew what they had to do.

The Community Steps Up to the Plate

Though the softball season was still weeks away, the OCS family rallied. Fans were ready to step up—to honor one of their all-time favorites.

“That’s right, rooting for Bobby,” they said.

Bobby had always pushed for facility upgrades at OCS. Now, those improvements came to fruition. New bleachers. A new press box. And most importantly, a new stadium name—a permanent reminder of his legacy.

“Your passion and perseverance has laid the foundation,” the community proclaimed.

One Last Celebration

On a historic night, OCS gathered to celebrate Bobby Stokes. And there was only one way to do it—the Bobby Stokes way.

The chant erupted across the stadium once more, louder than ever:

“Who are you rooting for?”

”OCS!”

“Who are you rooting for?

“OCS!”

Even from his seat, Bobby participated, his voice joining the chorus. “Hey, I tell you, I got a couple more,” he called out, before laughing. “Okay, I better stop. Yeah, buddy. You did it.”

The angels were crying. The community was celebrating. And Bobby Stokes’ legacy—one built not on seeking recognition, but on serving others—was cemented forever.

What’s Your Story?

Bobby Stokes’ life reminds us that legacies aren’t created in a moment. They’re built day by day, through showing up, working hard, and genuinely caring for those around you.

The question now is: What is your story?

If you’d like to share your story of impact, service, and purpose, reach out. Your legacy might just inspire the next generation.

Have a story to tell? Email aaron.dietrich@knoe.com