Obituary of Robert Hoskins

Robert "Bo" Lee Hoskins was born in Monroe, Michigan on November 5, 1932. He was the son of the late Manuel Hoskins Sr. and the late Irine (Short) Hoskins. He married the love of his life, the former Betty Jo Vinson, on November 3, 1966 in Monroe. Together they would raise and nurture a blended family. Bo was reserved in his ways, and a quiet, gentle soul who was well-known and well-loved throughout the community. In his earlier years, Bo enjoyed hunting, fishing, and softball, with an undeniable love for the Detroit Tigers. He was self-employed most of his life as a painter and handyman. Bo enjoyed conversing with others and he owned the local pool hall and belonged to the Lottery club for many years. For many years he co-owned and maintained several home properties with his late brother-in-law: Bobby Vinson. Robert Lee Hoskins, age 81 of Monroe, Michigan passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 27, 2014. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by two daughters: Stephanie and Treniece Grant; a brother: Manuel Hoskins II; and a sister: Jessie Miller. To cherish his memory, Bo leaves his beloved wife of forty-seven years: Betty Jo Hoskins of Monroe; four children: Sarita Toles of Monroe, Robert Grant of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Darin Hoskins of Monroe; a step-son: Rufus Smith of Georgia; a grandson: Davell Toles whom he raised as his own of Aurora, Colorado; one brother: Freddie (Hilda) Hoskins of Washington; four sisters: Ernestine (Willie) Johnson, Leola (Lymon) Jett, Wanda Montague, all three of Monroe and Bernice Bates of Ypsilanti, Michigan; a brother-in-law: Albert Vinson Jr. of Georgia; two sisters-in-law: Yvonne Reid of Georgia and Martha Hoskins of Monroe; many grandchildren and many great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Friends may gather from 4:00pm until 8:00pm, Friday, January 31, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe (formerly Bennett Funeral Services) 14567 South Dixie Hwy, (734) 241-7070. A Homegoing Celebration of His Life will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at 1:00pm, with Reverend Alfred Overstreet officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial in LaSalle, Michigan for burial. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.