Robert John Gomes

Rev. Dr. Robert J. Gomes, DMin, of Plymouth, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his lovely wife, Linda Gomes, their five adult children, and ten grandchildren.

Born and raised in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Rev. Dr. Gomes was a devoted husband, loving father, minister, public historian, and cultural steward whose work spanned more than four decades at the intersection of faith, Cape Verdean/American heritage, love and justice. Along with committing his life to God, his wife, children, and family, as a Pastor and Chaplain, Bob, worked passionately to offer spiritual care to diverse communities.

Dr. Gomes guided the preservation and public recognition of Parting Ways, a historic settlement in Plymouth founded by four formerly enslaved African American veterans of the Revolutionary War. As a young man, Bob spoke out at town meetings to protect the site; his advocacy helped place the site on the National Register of Historic Places.

Known to the community as Pastor Bob, and to others as, Robert "Bobby" Gomes, he had a diverse career from draftsman to man of God. His priority of love for his wife, family, and community, regardless of race or religion, was one of the many attributes he would want others to emulate. He will be loved and missed by all those he prayed for and loved.