By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
To say that music and church is a big part of Robert McColskey’s life would be an understatement. McColskey and his wife moved to Madison in 1989 from Palatka. They were both members of the Apostolic church and came to Madison for their church. Since coming to Madison, McColskey has been attempting to get people to come to church with him. Until recently, Madison has had no Apostolic church. There is now one located in the Harvey’s shopping center.
McColskey’s wife, Ruth, passed away in 2002, but prior to her death, she and Robert spent a lot of time doing church activities. Robert and Ruth also enjoyed going to eat at O’Neals. Robert played the guitar and sang in church for 30 years.
After his fingers became to stiff to wrap around the neck of the guitar, Robert made himself a four-string banjo and started playing it in churches. He has made several other instruments as well. They include: a 29-string harp, a dulcimer, solid top banjos and even a fiddle.
Modern amenities such as TVs and computers are not important to McColskey. He has no TV and no computer. He has been retired for 34 years and doesn’t fish anymore. For fun, McColskey goes to church.
When asked how he spends his free time now, McColskey responded, “I study my Bible. I have read the Bible the whole way through once a year, every year since 1979.” McColskey has spent a lot of time doing the work of the Lord, trying to share God’s word with everyone he meets. “If someone wants to know what the Bible says, I know it,” he explained.
Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.
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