Watoto Church announced Robert Skinner’s passing on 5 April, 2020. COURTESY PHOTO.
Heartfelt tributes to Robert Skinner, the father of Watoto founder Gary have poured in on Tuesday.
His death was announced via a statement from Watoto Church which described the ‘beloved’ preacher, grandfather and great-grand father as one who had a monumental impact on the ministry.
Affectionately known as ‘Jajja Bob’, Robert Skinner is said to have exemplified the life of Jesus Christ by constantly reaching out for opportunities to serve.
“Today we pay tribute to a true legend, Robert Skinner,” Watoto Church said. “We know that his legacy will live forever.”
Robert’s family and friends have gone online to reflect on how his devotion to evangelism affected their lives ― remembering how he encouraged many to keep reaching out, while giving them full assurance of hope and peace only found in Jesus Christ.
Gary Skinner’s sister Linda Skinner Duncalfe said on Tuesday that her father passed away very peacefully and “his legacy will live on.”
“Mom (Doris Bob Skinner) was with him and he was at peace. It was 69 years ago today that they were married. How fitting that they were together as he slipped away. I will miss him terribly but am thankful that he was my dad. Loving, gentle, kind, supportive, immensely proud of all his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Thank you Dad for being the best throughout my entire life,” Linda said.
Members the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) where the late once worked as an editor say his efforts where “remarkable” and he was such a “wonderful encourager.”
“He opened a wide door for me years ago. He could spot potential and draw it out. He was one of the best editors that PAOC had and did a remarkable job with the Pentecostal Testimony,” Margaret Gibb paid tribute to Robert. “What a legacy Bob Skinner lived and now has left. You were blessed to have him as your father, encourager, mentor, and champion.”
What others say about Robert Skinner
Solange Nolan: ‘What an awesome picture an icon of the great legacy Jajja Bob built. He was one of the kindest, most joyful and sincere people I’ve ever met. Glad I got to chat with him briefly and hug him when he was last in Uganda. Beautiful family – so focused on God and making the world better.’
Doreen B Muhereza: ‘I will remember him for his passion for God. I admire the legacy he has left behind. Rest well Jajja Bob. God’s love and comfort to you all.’
David Oyena: ‘I will never forget the day I had the wonderful privilege of serving Jajja Bob at Watoto Bugolobi recently. He beamed with so much love and care to everyone, he encouraged me to keep serving the Lord. May the peace of God reign in this tough time.’
Jonathan Tara Hutchison: ‘Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His loved ones. Sending you our condolences and prayers at this time.’
Katoogo Fred Ssenkezi: ‘Blessed be the name of the Lord who allowed us to share in the life of Jajja Bob. He has returned to His maker that loves Him dearly, blessed be the name of the Lord. The Lord God indeed satisfies us with long life. Blessed be His name for the life of Jajja Bob.’
Ssalongo Ronnie Mananu: ‘We used to call him Jajja Bob, he was my boss at Kampala Playhouse Ltd. What a great man he was, may God comfort you and the whole family.’
