A Heavenly Celebration took place during the early morning of August 22, 2019, when God called His son, Dr. James Henry Robinson Jr. (85 years old) home. Born February 13, 1934, in Norfolk, Virginia, he was the third of five children born to the late James H. Robinson Sr. and Lavene Robinson Holley. Left to cherish his memory, are his loving wife, Sandra Howe Robinson; daughter, Dr. Katherine Robinson Everett and husband, Marshall Everett Jr; son, James H. Robinson III; stepdaughters, Jennifer Roberts and husband, Rickey Roberts Jr. and Lisa Hall and husband Kevin Hall; grandchildren: Terry Wayne Parker II, Khaliyah Everett, Aliyah Myers, Avery Smith, Collin Smith, Ryleigh Smith and Addison Hall; sister, Joan Robinson Hamilton; and brothers, Rolfe Robinson and Ronald Robinson and several nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by his father and mother; first wife Willie Beatrice Powell Robinson, and sister, Delores Robinson Johnson.
During James’ developmental years, the Robinson family lived in the expansive Lambert’s Point community of Norfolk, Virginia, where he graduated from Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1952. Next, fortified by his mother’s relentless support and believing education was the path to success, he embarked upon an extraordinary, life-changing education quest and career. However, while pursuing his degree at Virginia Union University, James was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served in the continental USA and overseas, and received an Honorable Discharge. Nevertheless, James was not to be discouraged from his quest for education. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and chemistry from Virginia Union University, a Masters of Arts degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Hampton University, a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Educational Administration and Supervision from Old Dominion University, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Educational Leadership and Doctor of Education degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech).
All through this time period, he had major responsibility for a diversity of administrative, school district, faculty, staff, student, and program activities where he served with distinction and received numerous awards and honors, including Norfolk Public Schools Department of Special Educational Services, International Longshoremen’s Association, Virginia Port Authority, Chesapeake Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC), Tidewater Alliance of Black School Educators, Chesapeake Men for Progress, Norfolk State University Board of Visitors Virginia Principals’ Association, etc.. His professional background, training, and experiences qualified him as an educational professional, with an in-depth knowledge of administration, finance, curriculum, instruction, student achievement, and operating budgets. For example, Norfolk Public Schools: teacher, school principal, and director of special education; assistant superintendent for Hertford County Schools, NC; assistant superintendent for Halifax County Schools, NC; professor for Norfolk State University; and member of the Board of Visitors for Norfolk State University.
Dr. Robinson was one of the most conspicuously dedicated individuals of Chesapeake, Hampton Roads, Commonwealth of Virginia and globally; and he leaves an indelible mark on the entire community and region. James was superbly organized, very bright, intellectually curious, and most articulate. Highly motivated towards achievement, James demonstrated a remarkable sense of problem-identification and analysis, which enhanced his skills at problem solving. He did not seek the routine of administration, but rather anticipated problems and applied his leadership skills. He, as perpetual coach and mentor, envisioned his role as the community leader and organizer who continuously put the citizens and the community first. At all times, he was a tenacious community advocate and promoter who had the uncanny ability to look beyond the present day issues, circumstances and environments to see a brighter future for everyone. Furthermore, as a lifetime member and Trustee of First Baptist Church of Lambert’s Point, he understood it was the church’s and community’s responsibility to provide the leadership where no one was left behind. He was always on a crusade to make everyone’s life better.
Through the years, James formed many life-long friendships as a member and leader of countless local and national professional organizations, including Phi Delta Kappa, National Education Association, Virginia Education Association, Education Association of Norfolk, National Elementary Principals’ Association, Virginia Elementary Principals’ Association, Norfolk Elementary Principals’ Association, Council of Exceptional Children (National, State and Local), Tidewater Association of Retarded Citizens, Division of Superintendent’s List, National Alliance of Black School Educators, etc. Likewise, he was a member and leader of numerous civic organizations, such as Omega Psi Phi Fraternity (Zeta Chapter at Virginia Union University and the Norfolk Lambda Omega Chapter), First Baptist Church of Lambert’s Point, Local 1248, International Longshoremen’s Association, James Monroe School PTA, Providence Square Civic League and Past President, YMCA, Optimist International, etc.
Dr. James H. Robinson Jr. was an inspiration to all who met him, always ready to make you smile, truly ready for any reason to support a noble cause, always took the time to ask how you were and really wanted to know. His memory will be cherished by all.
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Dr. Joseph Melvin says
August 26, 2019 at 3:18 pmI will miss my mentor, coach, and most of all great friend. Rest well and I know that God is there with you welcoming you into his kingdom. I offer the deepest sympathy to the family.
Dr. Andrew & Teresa Carrington Family says
August 26, 2019 at 9:57 pmDear Dr. James Henry Robinson Jr. Family,
We are truly saddened upon the loss of James. Our hearts are with you and may the sorrow you feel in your heart lighten by the love that surrounds you. Please take comfort, he is an angel with his arms wrapped around you and, as always, he will continue to watch over you. James’ greatest joy was making you and everyone happy, and we will never be same without him. We love you!
Bill & Paula Pyne says
August 27, 2019 at 11:04 amPrayers To the Robinson Family – James was a good friend whose company we cherished. That infectious smile and hearty laugh will surely be missed. He loved his family dearly and was so very proud of you all. Rest In Peace James – Much love always –
Dr. Alpheus Arrington, Jr. says
August 29, 2019 at 9:34 amDr. James Robinson was truly a great friend of mine. He was always supportive, never judge mental and always provided great advice.
I had the opportunity to see him regularly at conferences and sporting events. He always would great you with a smile and a hug.
“Doc” will be truly missed.
My condolences to the family.
Ralph Wm. James says
August 27, 2019 at 8:34 amHe was a good man…I miss him. May his soul rest in heavenly peace.
Tom Hasty says
August 27, 2019 at 9:57 amWhen my family and I moved here in 1987 , Dr. Robinson was one of the first people I met. At that time I had the pleasure of his great counsel at The Chesapeake Men For Progress along with other community stalwarts such as Herb Mackey, Bill Ward, March Cromuel and Dr. Hugo Owens. These were the community stalwarts for African Americans in Chesapeake and it was my pleasure to have been associated with Dr. Robinson and the team. I will miss all of them and owe a debt of gratitude to them
Lisa Robinson Dover Downs says
August 28, 2019 at 10:26 amJust wanted to send prayers during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.
Joanne Shoulders says
August 27, 2019 at 12:17 pmWe will keep the family in prayer. Dr. Robinson lived a long life. And he was well loved at First Baptist Church Lambert Point. He will truly be missed by all whom knew him through the years.
Vinesha C. Pegram says
August 27, 2019 at 1:20 pmI am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember the kindness extended to me by Dr. James Robinson and Mrs. Bea Robinson.
Bettie Thomas says
August 27, 2019 at 3:52 pmKathy,
I’m forever grateful that you encouraged me to visit your father just a few weeks ago. We reminisced over college days and the early days in our beloved Providence Square .
I’m saddened to learn of his passing but rejoice in having recently visited with him .
May your faith and sweet memories sustain you and Robbie during this time ?
Bettie Thomas says
August 27, 2019 at 3:50 pmKathy,
I’m forever grateful that you encouraged me to visit your father just a few weeks ago. We reminisced over college days and the early days in our beloved Providence Square .
I’m saddened to learn of his passing but rejoice in having recently visited with him .
May your faith and sweet memories sustain you and Robbie during this time ?
Lamont Simmons says
August 27, 2019 at 9:14 pmMy deepest sympathy goes out to the family, friends, colleagues and neighbors on the passing of the beloved James. He was a great asset to our Chesapeake community and is sorely missed.
Link Shirley M. George says
August 28, 2019 at 1:10 amMy thouggts and prayers are with you and your family Link Katherine and Marshall. All of the loving memories,family, friends and your faith will help you get this these hurting times. May the Lord bless keep and be with you and your family, with Sisterly Love
Lisa Robinson Dover Downs says
August 28, 2019 at 10:20 amSending prayers during this difficult time. I only knew James a short time but truly enjoyed talking with him during his visits to Dover. He will be missed.
Alisha Everett-Miles says
August 28, 2019 at 2:06 pmSuch a Great Man. Always Loving, Caring, and Passionate about others. We are really going to miss you “Pop Pop”
May God Bless and Comfort my sis Kathy and my brother Marshall.
Love and Condolences sent from the Miles’
Bishop Rebeccafrances Powell says
August 28, 2019 at 5:10 pmBishop Rebeccafrances Powell
Kathy
I was sorry to hear of the loss of your father, yesterday. We worked together at J T West School and in administration. I know words cannot help much right now, but rest assured that there is no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. Praying that you will find strength from Almighty God during this time of bereavement.
Bishop Rebeccafrances Powell says
August 28, 2019 at 5:12 pmBishop Rebeccafrances Powell
Kathy
I was sorry to hear of the loss of your father, yesterday. We worked together at J T West School and in administration. I know words cannot help much right now, but rest assured that there is no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. Praying that you will find strength from Almighty God..
Bro.Rev. Dr. James Edwards, lll says
August 28, 2019 at 5:47 pmMy condolences to the family of my Omega Psi Phi brother Dr. James Henry Robinson, Jr. Truly Bro Robinson was one of the sturdy trees found in our fraternity.
Bro. Rev. Dr. James Edwards, lll
Immediate Past 3rd.District Chaplain of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Grover mungo0 says
August 28, 2019 at 7:35 pmRest in peace my friend
Erica Paul, Rex Gay, Kimberly Gay says
August 28, 2019 at 9:02 pmDear Mrs. Robinson, Kathy and Robbie,
Our hearts and love go out you and your family. We express our deepest condolences and want you to know we are keeping you all in prayer. Please call on us for anything you may need.
Much Love,
Rex, Kim and Erica
Dr. Peggie J Robertson says
August 28, 2019 at 9:22 pmTo Sandi and Winifred,
My heart aches for you. I know that God will send angels to help you through this sorrowful time. Doc was a mentor for me and encouraged me to become a principal. He will be missed by many. May God grant you peace and comfort.
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