Robert "Bob" H. Skinner

Robert H. Skinner (Bob) peacefully passed away on the morning of August, 5th 2025.  He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend.  He will be remembered for his deep love of family. He never missed an event. No matter how big or small, and could always be found in the audience cheering the loudest. He had a spectacular memory and never forgot a birthday.  His generosity, kindness, and outgoing spirit meant he never met a stranger. He was a man who lived with great love, laughed often, and left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

Bob was born in New Iberia, LA on April 18, 1951.  He moved to Hobbs, NM at a young age where he graduated from Hobbs High School.  He excelled in Football, Basketball, and Track.  Eventually he went into the National Guard.

He met his first love Shirley Manley at a bowling alley and fell head over heels.    At the time she was raising four children on her own (Debbie Monk, Johnny Monk, Christie Monk, and Thomas Monk).  Once they married Bob raised her kids as his own.  One year later their daughter Nissa Rae was born, followed by another son Robert Jr.

He started his career working for Coca Cola delivering products to stores.  From there he worked for 25 yrs. driving trucks for Climax Chemical.  After which he drove for Navajo until he retired at the age of 62.

He was an avid bird hunter, enjoyed playing golf and bowling.  He also coached baseball and got kicked out of several games due to his overexcitement of the bad calls.

In 2009 he met his final love Debbie Dean.  At their 40 yr. high school reunion, she was stranded without a ride to her hotel room.  Bob graciously offered to drive her and used the opportunity to invite her to dinner.  They dated long distance and married on March 25, 2014.  She then relocated to Midland Tx., where they lived out their lives together.

He spent many weekends traveling to Hobbs to watch his grandkids play soccer and basketball.  He was intentional about spending individual quality time with each of his grandkids and great grandkids.

Bob is survived by his loving wife Debbie, his children (Debbie (Charlie) Fryer, Christie Monk, Thomas Monk, Nissa (Scott) Abney, Robert (Angela) Skinner, Bryan Bood, Cheryl (Frank) Hunton and Allen (Jeanette Bood).  His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren Tyler Skinner, Dakota (Jay) Allman, Kristopher (Catherine) Abney, Taylor (Victoria) Abney, Makenzie Abney, Roshelle Kushman and Ciaira Kushman.  His 14 great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts.  He is also survived by his siblings: Gary (Marsha) Skinner and Kathy Rachel. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Mary and Harres Skinner; his first wife Shirley Skinner; his sisters Mary Ann Holman and Susie Longwell; and his son Johnny Monk.  

Christian Center Church located at (4024 W College Ln. Hobbs, NM 88242) will hold his celebration of life on Saturday August 16, 2025 at 2:00 pm.   

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27