Veteran Syracuse Baptist minister, Rev. Bob Hope Robinson, aged 79, has passed away
Rev. Bob Hope Robinson, a well-respected Baptist pastor in Syracuse, New York, passed away peacefully at his home in Baldwinsville on July 10, 2025, at the age of 79.
Born in Benoit, Mississippi, Robinson was named after the famous comedian Bob Hope, but no direct link between the two exists beyond the namesake. He grew up in Benoit and later moved north, preferring to be called by his real name. He attended grade school in Grapeland, Mississippi and graduated from Nugent Center High School.
Robinson's athletic prowess was evident early on, as he lettered in baseball, basketball, and track in high school. He was even voted "Athlete of the Year" during his junior and senior years. His dedication to sports continued, as he received athletic scholarships in all three sports.
Robinson's faith played a significant role in his life, and he served for seven years at The New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church before forming the Greater New Morning Star Baptist Church. In January 1997, he was chosen as Pastor of The New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church.
Robinson was a strong advocate for the youth in his community. He saw the potential in Syracuse's youth and believed that employing them could help them attend church. This belief led to the creation of the Youth Enrichment Program, which placed ten youths with seven businesses and agencies in Syracuse.
Robinson was a hardworking man, with the teenagers under his programme working six hours a day, five days a week and earning $4.50 an hour, amounting to $135 a week.
Throughout his ministry, Robinson made a lasting impact on many lives. He was a respected figure in the community and was known to have met notable figures such as Muhammad Ali and former President Bill Clinton during his work in Syracuse.
Robinsoin leaves behind his devoted wife, Angela D. Robinson, three sons, two daughters, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, and other family members. Calling hours for Robinson will be held on Friday, July 18, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at FARONE & SON Inc Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery, Syracuse.
While detailed biographical information and extensive career history specific to Rev. Robinson are limited, local church archives or community records in Syracuse and Baldwinsville may provide fuller insights into the life and work of this beloved pastor.
Celebrities such as Muhammad Ali and former President Bill Clinton acknowledged Robinsson's influence in Syracuse through their encounters with him during his work in the community. In his later years, Robinson's passion for empowering the youth led to the establishment of an entertainment program called the Youth Enrichment Program.
