Rev. Dr. Robert Leroy “Bob” Woodruff was a Nazarene missionary who dedicated his life to serving the people of Jiwaka from his early years until his passing. Jiwaka is where he started and ended his missionary work. Born on 22nd January 1948, he was an American citizen by birth, yet he gave up his nationality to serve the nation, including the most remote district in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. Dr. Woodruff chose to leave behind the comfort of his life and pursue God instead. Bob’s mission on Earth was done on 10th April 2025. He was laid to rest at MNBC Tuman Campus, Jiwaka Province, PNG.
The call to mission became a reality in Rev. Dr. Robert Leroy “Bob” Woodruff’s life when he responded to the call to be the primary teacher at the Nazarene Kudjip Mission School in 1974. Some years later, he became the chaplain of the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital. Eventually, he became the Principal at the Tuman MNBC campus in Jiwaka.
Over five decades, he faithfully served the Lord in various capacities with humble beginning first as a teacher at the Kudjip Mission school (1973-1974), a Pastor for a Greek congregation (1977), Chaplain for the Kudjin Nazarene Hospital in PNG (1978-1980), Principal for NTC -Brisbane (1981-1986) and at the European Nazarene Bible College [ENBC] at Busingen along the border of Switzerland and Germany (1989-1991), Vice Chancellor for the African Nazarene University (ANU) 1993-1995, Field Director for Australia and New Zealand,(ANZ) from 1995 to 2002, World Mission Education Coordinator [WMEC] 2002-2010. Dr. Woodruff had not failed his church nor his brothers in service; he gave it all, and through his selfless actions, others as far as Africa, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and America have heard the call.
Born with a profound commitment to learning and teaching, Dr. Woodruff pursued knowledge relentlessly, earning his PhD from Griffith University, Qld, Australia, in 1992. His research in “Educational Program Evaluation and Development” left a significant mark on the profession. Utilizing Guba and Stufflebeam’s CIPP model, he sought to prepare individuals for their future careers, embodying his belief that education is the foundation of a successful life. Beyond the accolades, Dr. Woodruff was a visionary leader who created avenues for students and educators.
In 1971, after graduating from George Fox College with a Bachelor of Science, he responded to the call to become a teacher. Later in 1976, He earned a Master of Divinity, Major in, “Cross-Cultural Studies and Christian Education” with high honors from Western Evangelical Seminary, Oregon, USA. At the same seminary, he obtained his Doctorate in Ministry in 1984. His thesis focused on “Leadership Development in the field of Education and Internships”. He then became the Principal for NTC-Brisbane from 1984 to 1986.
His commitment to developing educational opportunities in Africa was remarkable. As the Chancellor of Africa Nazarene University, he helped guide over 1,500 students, fostering an environment where they could thrive and grow. His emphasis on mentorship and hands-on experience in education has shaped generations of leaders. Between transitions, Bob found himself teaching in a classroom while preaching in local churches, maintaining his influence within the Church of the Nazarene, and pioneering the implementation of video conferencing across Nazarene colleges worldwide.
“He left the comfort of his home and family to just walk among us, live with us, and most of all, to bring us the message of eternal life through Jesus Christ. He did not come for wealth, “family, or recognition. He came with love, with purpose, and with a calling. He became one of us. He shared in our joys, our struggles, our culture, and our faith. His life was a testimony of sacrifice and love living example of what it means to carry the cross daily. What a painful loss, yet a what a powerful legacy. Your labor was not in vain, you have touched countless lives, and your reward is great in heaven”.
As we remember Dr. Woodruff today, we also reflect on his compassion and kindness. He was a scholar and a friend to many, always ready to lend an ear or offer encouragement. His integrity and humility inspired those around him to strive for excellence, knowing they would be met with support and understanding. We celebrate a man who dedicated his life to the advancement of education, the nurturing of future leaders, and the betterment of communities around the world. He maintained his influence within the Church of the Nazarene and pioneered the implementation of video conferencing across Nazarene colleges worldwide. The Melanesian South Pacific Field (MSPF) is humbled and full of gratitude as they remember and reflect on the life and ministry of Dr. Woodruff, whose passion and love for education was truly remarkable, unwavering, and profoundly impacted the global Church of the Nazarene and the communities around the world.
Dr. Woodruff exemplified dedication, resilience, and hope. He believed in the power of education to transform lives and committed himself to that mission wholeheartedly until his very last days. His legacy will live through the countless individuals he inspired and the institutions he helped build.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Sue; his two daughters, Kristi and Katina; sons-in-law, Craig and Mike; and grandchildren, Isabelle, Ruby, and Ebony.
