Robert's Grandfathers' Influences

Words from Robert and Bryan’s dad...

            At Robert’s funeral last week, his children and several ministers, including his father-in-law, reverend James Caviness gave wonderful testimonials as to the warmth and depth of caring Robert had for his family and church.

             As his dad, I would have added that Robert had been a wonderful and happy baby and that trend continued throughout his lifetime.

             Robert was fortunate to have inherited the best of his two grandfathers’ genes.  From Freeman “Poppy” Hill, Robert inherited a love of church, family and giving back to the community, a love of fishing and gardening, and hard work to provide for his family.

             From Carl “Pawpaw” Shelton, Robert also inherited a love of church, family and giving back to the community without any expectation of anything in return.  He also inherited Pawpaw’s great sense of humor and story telling abilities.  Poppy taught Robert to fish the waters, Pawpaw taught him to waterski on the waters.

             Robert developed into the best minister I have ever heard in my life.  He was a natural.  At every sermon I attended, I welled up with pride and tears in appreciation for his abilities and messages.

            Like Bryan, Robert also did the wedding ceremony for Sandi and myself, and the funerals for both of my parents.  I fully expected him to do my funeral.  Now it is back to the drawing board and to wait on grandson, Wesley, whom I suspect has also inherited that wonderful minister’s gene.