PELL CITY, AL – The Pell City community is grieving the loss of 38-year-old Robby S. Isbell, a beloved father and friend, who died Friday following a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 in Jefferson County.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Isbell’s 2001 Ford F-150 left the roadway near the Leeds city limits just before 10 a.m., struck a ditch, and overturned. Because he was not wearing a seat belt, Isbell was thrown from the truck and suffered critical injuries. He was transported to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where he later died.
A passenger riding with Isbell was also injured and taken to the hospital, though their condition has not been released. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Friends and neighbors describe Isbell as warm, generous, and full of life, someone who made those around him feel valued. Residents recall his laughter, backyard barbecues, and Friday evening chats, emphasizing the impact he had on the tight-knit Pell City community.
The stretch of I-20 east of Leeds, known for its rolling hills and challenging curves, has been a concern for drivers for years. Authorities are urging caution along the route as the investigation continues.
Details regarding memorial services and visitation are expected to be shared by the family in the coming days. Pell City residents say they will honor Isbell’s memory by remembering the joy, kindness, and love he shared during his life.