Robert Lee Gaskins, Sr.

Robert Lee Gaskins Sr. AKA "Man" passed away November 19th at his residence. He was the son of the late Rev. Artist Lee and Essie Mae Gaskins Robert journey in education began in Georgia public schools during segregation. He attended Center High School during segregation in Waycross, GA. During integration he graduated from Brantley County High in 1969. Right after he joined the United States Marine Corp. He later Medical retired in November 1973 as a Corporal were he also served one tour in Vietnam War. Shortly after he worked for Norfolk Navy Shipyard for a few years. Not long after he worked for Gwaltney Meat Packing Plant for over 30 years as a security officer. He also retired after 20 years from the Pines Treatment Center as a floor technician & security. Robert enjoyed fishing, gardening, playing cards, telling his back-in-day stories, joking, singing in the church choir (where he impersonated David Ruffin from the Temptation), talking with is siblings on their morning conference calls. Most of all he loved spending time with his children & grandchildren. Robert was a faithful member of Sanctuary of Hope Holiness Church, where he worked tirelessly to minister to the spiritual, physical, and emotional, needs of those who have struggled under the constant grind of the evil associated with property. He was highly regarded as the best Deacon, Elder, Minister, Preacher, and Pastor. He truly embodied the teachings of Jesus who would say "whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant." He was a genuine manifestation of God's word. Robert left to cherish his memories: three daughters Lonnise Gaskins of Portsmouth; Rosalynn Batchelor (Eric) of Suffolk; Shavonia Powe of Chesapeake; three sons Robert L Gaskins Jr., Tony Myrick (Carolyn), Reginald Myrick all of Portsmouth; three sisters Verdia Roberts of Long Island, NY; Betty Clark of Waycross, GA; Louise Gaskins of Hoboken, GA; two brothers Kenneth Gaskins of Waycross, GA; Nathaniel Gaskins (Lucinda) of Columbus, SC; eleven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; hist of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. Also, three devoted nephews Trevor & Elvin Dodge and Keary Young; special extended daughter LaToya Whidbee.

Robert Lee Gaskins, Sr.

December 14, 1951 - November 19, 2023