Obituary published on Legacy.com by Toombs by Crystal Funeral Service on Feb. 9, 2026.
Robert James Scott, age 75, of
Grand Rapids, Michigan, made his transition from his earthly home to his heavenly home of rest and peace on February 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. He was born on July 7, 1950, in
Brandon, Mississippi, to Robert Lee Scott and Lottie Mae (Mike) Scott. Although born in Mississippi, Robert was raised in
Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he built lifelong friendships and memories. He was the second of eight children.
Affectionately known as "Boo" in his younger years, and later preferring to be called "Bob," he attended Sigsbee Elementary School, where he excelled in basketball and baseball. He often spoke fondly of his baseball teammate, Ernie Johnson. He later attended Ottawa Hills High School. During his sophomore year, he briefly left school to work at Knape and Vogt Manufacturing in order to purchase his first car, a Ford Galaxie. Determined to finish what he started, he returned and proudly graduated in June 1970. While attending Ottawa Hills, he met his future wife, Gail Tillman. From their union, one son, Torino "Tino" Scott, was born. He also enjoyed spending time with friends Tommy Murry, Basie Cummings, Rodney Tardy, Michael Timms, and Alan Bullard.
His faith was an important part of his life. In September 1986, Robert was baptized at Bethel Seventh-day Adventist Church, and he continued to confess his belief in Jesus Christ throughout his life.
Robert was known for his impeccable memory, especially regarding historical dates, events, and sports statistics. He was a wealth of knowledge, always ready with advice or a kind word. His greatest accomplishment was the birth of his son, Tino. From an early age, he taught him basketball, which became the centerpiece of their bond. He was known for his quiet, mild, and easygoing demeanor, and for being a cheerful giver who helped family members without ever requiring repayment. Family meant everything to him, and he often reminded everyone of the importance of the "Scott Family." When he received something he appreciated, he would smile and say, "Just what the doctor ordered."
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee and Lottie Mae Scott; grandparents, Ollie (Climmer) Scott and Henry (Ida) Mike; brothers, Ernest (Sara) Scott, Earl (Laura) Scott, and Dwight (Denise) Scott; and sisters, Ida (Tommy) Murry and Ruby Hawthorn.
He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Torino "Tino" (Christine) Scott; stepson, Mark (Judy) Tillman; grandchildren, Alon Scott, Ondria Wilkins, and Ryon Scott; great-grandchildren, Zyair Colwye-Scott and Hiro Long-Scott; brother, Ben Brown; sisters, Inez (Roy) Buxton and Sherry (Daniel) Autamashih; nephews, Ben Brown Jr., Vince Brown, Benjamin (Samantha) Holt, Ernest Trotter, Roy A. Buxton, Jason Buxton, Dan S. Autamashih, Ro Walton, Ernest Walton, and Robert Walton; nieces, Tonya Murry, Kendra Murry, Erica Scott, Janelle Thomas, Ashley Murry, Janelle Murry, Markia Murry, Amaya Wright; along with a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and friends.