Anne Bridgewater (right), daughter of the late Professor Leslie Roy Bruce Robinson, comforts her mother, Dr. Joyce Robinson, at the thanksgiving service for the life of the first appointed principal of the University of the West Indies, Mona, which was held at the University Chapel, yesterday. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer

Several tributes flowed as relatives, friends and members of the academic fraternity turned out yesterday at the thanksgiving service for the life of Leslie Roy Bruce Robinson.

A packed University Chapel, in Mona, St. Andrew, heard about a great man who was an excellent mathematician and athlete who was the first to be appointed principal of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona.

Robinson, born December 27, 1925, died on April 4.

A great founding member

Professor E. Nigel Harris, vice chancellor of the university, said the institution had lost a great founding member.

"All of us who have benefited from the outstanding contributions of this brilliant scholar, in so many areas of the life of both the university and the nation, take great pride in the legacy that he has left and which will form a proud record in the annals of this great institution," said Prof. Harris.

Robinson served the institution for more than 42 years, most notably as principal, was a founding member of the academic staff of the then University College of the West Indies, pro vice chancellor, acting vice chancellor and director of planning.

The gathering also heard about Robinson's years prior to his service at UWI.

In the remembrance, Professor Rex Nettleford, vice chancellor emeritus at UWI and family friend, said that Robinson, a country boy, was educated at Calabar High School. A well-rounded student, he excelled in sports, in particular football, cricket, boxing and athletics, where he set a number of records.

"He was comfortable in his skin which made it possible for him to be generous of spirit to almost everyone he knew and which made him treasure friendship among family and friends," said Prof. Nettleford.

At the service, Professor Gerald Lalor noted that Robinson was one of the rocks on which UWI, Mona, was built.

"Oftentimes academics are not remembered and I know we will be forgotten. But we should not let Leslie be lost," said Lalor.

Robinson leaves behind, wife, Dr. Joyce Robinson; children, Anthony and Anne; and seven grandchildren.

Interment followed at the Providence Methodist Cemetery in Liguanea, St. Andrew.