John E. Robinson

Life Reflections

John Ervin Robinson was the youngest child of Anthony and Rosie Robinson’s 3 children. John’s life journey began on Thursday, July 25th, 1940 in Carrollton, MS. His spiritual journey began at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in Greenwood, MS.

John’s “dimpled” smile and charismatic personality were his life trademarks. His energetic vibe attracted most people (including strangers) to him. Strangers were friends that he just hadn’t met yet. He met one “special” stranger (Emma C. Robinson) while attending Broad Street High School in Greenwood, MS. Upon meeting Emma, he instantly knew that she would be his life partner. John married “the Love of his Life” on August 26th, 1963. He absolutely loved, adored, and supported “the Love of his Life”. When Emma began her 29-year ministerial career, he was in full support of her decision. He was a dedicated husband and active member (serving on the Usher Board) in all of the churches that she pastored (Community UMC, Faith UMC, and Wesley UMC). John and Emma celebrated 60 years of marital bliss last year. John proudly shared this fact with EVERYONE that he came in contact with. His favorite vocal group was The Temptations. The song “My Girl” was his personal tribute to his beloved Emma.

John’s life journey was further enriched when he and Emma became parents. Jennifer (who he affectionately called his “Oldest”) joined John’s journey in 1968. Tiffany (who he affectionately called “Baby Girl”) later joined in 1976.

John had a zest for life! He never hesitated to “speak his truth”. He would provide his brutally honest opinion, with or without your consent. After stating his opinion, he would usually say “It’s the truth”, or “In my opinion”. While opinionated, John possessed a quiet spirit. He rarely complained, nor did he want to be a “bother” (not even during his illness). He would often say “I don’t want no trouble”. He also had a “one day at at a time” philosophy.

John’s zest for life also included living an active outdoor and healthy lifestyle. This included family travel, bike riding, walking the forest preserves (and indoor malls during the winter), exercising, and eating healthy foods. Although he lived an active lifestyle, he always thought about people who were not able to be active due to illnesses. John routinely visited those who were “sick and shut in”.

When John retired from Pre-Coat Metals (after 40 years of service), he was excited to begin a new phase in his life journey. It was during his retirement years that he was able to commit to daily and weekly activities with family and friends. John and Emma would start their day every morning with “coffee time”. They would greet each other every morning by saying “Good Morning my Darling” to each other. This would be followed by coffee, breakfast, and a 2 hour conversation at the kitchen table. Each night would end with them saying “Good Night my Darling” to each other. John also had a commitment every Friday with close friends Cleotha Lewis and Vernon Henry. This weekly “male bonding” would include coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts or breakfast at Cracker Barrel. He didn’t allow anything (not even doctor’s appointments) to interfere with this dedicated time with his friends. John’s grandchildren (Tony and Jonaie) held a special place in his heart. He proudly embraced being “Papa”. Every Friday after they got out of school, he would take them bike riding, to the movies, Chuck E. Cheese, and out to eat. He called this special (and dedicated) time with his grandchildren, “Fun Friday”. The only “Fun Friday” pre requisite was that both participants had to be potty trained. “Fun Friday” was in full effect from the time Tony and Jonaie were potty trained until they graduated from the 8th grade.

John’s faith in God was steadfast. He was always an active member in his church. After Emma retired from ministry, they joined Hillcrest Baptist Church, under the leadership Rev. Dr. Adron Robinson. Most recently, they were members of All Nations Community Church, under the leadership of Rev. Steven Bell. John’s daily routine included daily meditation and Gospel music. One of his favorite Gospel songs was “Goin’ Up Yonder” (by Walter Hawkins). During his illness, it was his faith that gave him strength to continue his cancer fight, “one day at a time”. It was his faith that prepared him, in his words, “To go be with the Lord”. It was on Saturday, July 13th, 2024 that John’s earthly life journey ended and his Heavenly existence with God began!

God, Family, and Friends were priorities during John’s life journey. His Family and Friends are now faced with continuing their life journey without his physical presence. While this will be difficult, there is solace in celebrating John’s Heavenly existence with God. Those celebrating include Emma (“the Love of his Life), Jennifer (his “Oldest”), Tiffany (“Baby Girl”), Terry (Son-in-law), Carlos (Son-in-law), Tony (Grandson), Jonaie (Granddaughter), Catherine Jackson (Sister), cherished relatives, and revered friends.