Bobbie Savage, a highly regarded educator and a prominent figure in the Key Biscayne community, passed away on Friday after a prolonged illness. She was 82 years old.
Savage’s legacy is profoundly felt in Miami-Dade County, where she dedicated over three decades to teaching at the K-8 Center and MAST Academy. Through her kindness and unwavering advocacy for education, she shaped the lives of countless school children.
Recognized as the elementary school science teacher of the year by Miami-Dade schools in 1997, Savage specialized in nurturing gifted students at the Center for Academically Talented Students at the K-8. Former student Alexandra Fadel fondly recalled, “She was one of the most enthusiastic, authentic people I’ve ever met. Her energy was truly contagious.”
Anne Rothe, director of the Key Biscayne Presbyterian School, shared her admiration for Savage, stating, “Mrs. Savage was my daughter’s teacher at KBCS and was so inspiring to her students. When I started teaching at KBPS, she was incredibly supportive, a true mentor and guide in my journey as an educator. I will be forever grateful for her influence.”
Born Barbara McKinnon on June 14, 1942, in Meridian, Mississippi, Savage was the daughter of John Walter McKinnon and Juanita McKinnon. Following her graduation from the University of Southern Mississippi, she obtained a master’s degree in science education from Florida State University. It was during her time in Meridian that she met her husband, Dave, while he was training at the Navy flight school.
The couple led a jet-setting lifestyle thanks to Dave’s career as a Pan Am pilot, living in various locations including Berlin and Sydney, Australia. They eventually settled in Key Biscayne in 1973. Savage’s passion for travel was matched only by her thirst for knowledge, which she shared with her students. Her oldest son, Grant Savage, remarked, “She just loved going and getting all the experiences and history. She loved to learn.”
Savage maintained an active lifestyle, diligently working towards her goal of 10,000 steps each day. While out running, she often encountered former students and was quick to recognize them, fondly recalling memories such as teaching them how to spell their names. Friend Nancy Gamwell reminisced, “I remember walking with Bobbie and seeing someone on the street with a baby carriage, and she’d stop and remark that she remembered teaching them how to spell their name. She always saw the best in people.”
Her vibrant personality extended beyond the classroom; she was an avid tennis player for years and a leading member of the Active Seniors at the Key Club, later becoming involved in the local canasta game circuit. Additionally, Savage was a longstanding member of Crossbridge Church Key Biscayne, known for her famous and unique bread pudding served after Sunday services.
Savage also engaged with the community as a member of the Key Biscayne Yacht Club.
Bobbie Savage is survived by her husband, Dave; her three sons, Grant, Guy, and Glenn; and her grandchildren, Henry and Elizabeth.
image source from：https://kbindependent.org/2025/05/25/bobbie-savage-beloved-key-biscayne-educator-dies-at-82/
