**Automotive Industry Mourns Sudden Loss of Bobbie Herron, President of The Bees Knees Agency**

Automotive Industry Mourns Sudden Loss of Bobbie Herron, President of The Bees Knees Agency

The automotive industry is united in grief following the unexpected passing of Bobbie Herron, 45, President and Founder of The Bees Knees Automotive Agency, and a respected board member of Women In Automotive. A dynamic leader, mentor, and advocate, Bobbie died suddenly on July 19, 2025, in Dimondale, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of empowerment and transformation.

🚀 A Remarkable Career

Bobbie had devoted more than two decades to revolutionizing automotive dealership performance. She held leadership roles with the Garber Automotive Group and later became Director of Dealer Performance with the Cardinale Group—recognized as a top Wards e-Dealer in North America .
In founding The Bees Knees Agency, she built an operations consultancy focused on digital marketing, CRM optimization, culture transformation, and sales effectiveness for dealerships across the U.S. and Canada

Bobbie’s accolades include:

• Automotive News 40 Under 40 Award (2015)

• Frequent keynote speaker at Digital Dealer, Women In Automotive, and Driving Sales conferences

• Leadership on Women In Automotive’s Executive Board, advocating for gender equity in a male–dominated industry

🌟 Mentorship & Advocacy

Bobbie was both mentor and motivator, known for her blunt encouragement and unwavering belief in others:

• Stan Sher recalled their first meeting at Digital Dealer in 2014:

  “She could have judged me, but instead she accepted me… She was truly amazing at her craft and one of the most badass people I ever met.”Travis Lumsden shared how her support during tough times prevented him from quitting:

• “She didn’t have to help me… but she did. And it changed my life.” als” and inspiring them to take bold actions—whether advancing their careers or returning to school.

💡 Energy & Presence

Beyond her expertise, Bobbie was celebrated for lighting up any room with her bright spirit, wit, and authenticity. She wouldn’t hesitate to dress up as Batman at conferences, earning the admiration of colleagues and clients alike .
Her larger‑than‑life energy, compassion, and commitment to celebrating others made her not just a leader, but a beloved friend and presence in countless lives

🕊️ A Tremendous Loss

The shock of Bobbie’s sudden passing is felt deeply across dealership floors, marketing teams, and industry boards. Friends, clients, and mentees are mourning the loss of a fierce ally and champion.

As one colleague expressed:

“She was sharp, driven, unapologetically bold, and yet always had time to lift others higher.”

🛠️ Honoring Her Legacy

In tribute to Bobbie’s life mission, colleagues are exploring ways to sustain her impact:

• Establishing scholarships or mentorship funds to support women entering automotive and marketing fields.

• Creating leadership development programs inspired by her coaching philosophy.

• Hosting tribute panels at future Women In Automotive and Digital Dealer events.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family and Friends

Bobbie was also a devoted mother and grandmother, and she spoke proudly of her family—who were at the center of everything she did. As the community extends support, her loved ones continue cherishing her fierce love and beautiful spirit.

📝 Final Reflection

Bobbie Herron’s absence leaves an irreplaceable gap in both the automotive and marketing worlds. What remains is the fire she ignited in others—through bold leadership, radical kindness, and unwavering advocacy.

May her legacy continue to guide and uplift future generations of leaders, and may her memory be as enduring as the impact she made.