Obituaries » Louis “Louie” William Robinson, Sr.

Louis “Louie” William Robinson, Sr.

August 22, 1934 - December 19, 2022

Louis “Louie” William Robinson Sr., 88 of Lynchburg died peacefully and painlessly in the early hours of Monday, December 19, 2022, at Lynchburg General Hospital. His loving wife Loretta was at his side. The family wishes to convey their thanks and appreciation to the Hospitalists and Nursing Staff, Emergency Department, MICU, Hospice Care and the Palliative Team at Lynchburg General. Their compassion and professional care of Louie did not go unnoticed.

Louie was the only child of his deceased parents, Josephine Bradley Robinson (Buckingham, Virginia) and Louis William Robinson Sr. (Brooklyn, New York).He is survived by his loving wife Loretta of 58 years; his children Lauren Robinson Nesbit (Claude), Kim Robinson Nel (Andries), Robbie (Louis Jr,) Robinson (Niecy), Lisa Robinson Robinson (Barry); grandchildren Peyton and Joshua Robinson.

Due to his love of jazz Louie was referred to as “Bebop” by his grandchildren. In addition, there are a host of cousins and a multitude of friends left to mourn the loss of this gentleman.

Prior to his passing Louie spent four months at Heritage Green Memory Care where he was professionally and lovingly cared for by the nursing staff. Prior to this, he was cared for at home by Robin Anderson, his nurse from Generation Solutions.

On July 31, 1964, Louie married Loretta. Together they raised four children in Springfield Gardens, New York. Louie and Loretta moved to Lynchburg in August 1996 and shortly thereafter they joined St. Paul’s Episcopal Church where he served on the Vestry from 1998 through 2000 and as an usher from 1998 until health issues intervened. He was employed by Meals on Wheels from 1998 through 2014 where he delivered meals to those citizens who were homebound. It was a job he loved.

Louie graduated from Brooklyn Community College in 1973 with an Associate’s Degree in Marketing and Franklin K. High School, Brooklyn, New York in 1953. He served as an acolyte, thurifer and crucifer at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Brooklyn, New York for over 10 years. He served in the United States Army for two years and was honorably discharged in September 1956. After 28 years with the United States Post Office, he retired in 1992.

Louie was an integral part of the establishment of the Boys and Girls Club of Lynchburg and as a result was the recipient of the 2006 Mayor’s Award for Excellence and the 2006 National Conference of Christians and Jews for his dedication and service to the City of Lynchburg; the NAACP (Lynchburg Chapter) Citizen Achievement Award, 2006; Champion of Youth Award, Boys and Girls Club of Lynchburg, 2006; the National Silver Medallion, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, 2009; the W.A. Bud Porter Award For Passion, presented by the Boys and Girls VA/DC Council, April 2013; and the Youth Service Board of the City of Lynchburg for Outstanding Service to the Youth of Lynchburg in November 2013. Louie’s connection to the club was a shining example of his love and dedication to children.

Louie was also a member of The Poets, a men’s social group that met monthly. for lunch at the Depot Grille. He was an avid reader and a lover of jazz – witnessed by his presence on Wednesday evenings at Meriwether’s Restaurant for jazz night. In addition, he enjoyed swimming and walking at the Jamerson YMCA.

Louie led his life with dignity, honor, respect and responsibility. He cherished his family above all and valued his many friends. If he saw you across the room he would make it his business to walk over and greet you personally. He never forgot a face – and rarely forgot a name.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 14th, 11 AM, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Lynchburg

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Boys and Girls Club, 1101 Madison Street, Lynchburg, Va. 24504.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

Condolences & Tributes

Celebrate Louis “Louie” William's life with a short message, photo or video!

I met Louie many years ago at the Jamerson Y. He was just the nicest most considerate man, and I considered him my friend. Louie spoke so fondly of his family and his love of Boys & Girls Club. I so regret that I had lost touch with him in recent years. Blessings on his family. Blessings on sweet Louie.

Posted by Marcia McBratney on January 13, 2023

Loretta and family, I was so sorry to hear of Louis’ passing. He was a shining light in our community and I will always remember his warm smile and kind words. I remember how devoted he was to you, Loretta, and how we always welcomed his visits to Interfaith back in the day. His sincere desire to be light in our world showed through all he is remembered for. Love you, friend….

Posted by Terri Miller on January 12, 2023

Reading this lovely tribute makes me sad that I never met him. But I know him and the strength of his character through you, Lauren and Kim. My deepest condolences to your entire family and his many admiring friends. It is clear that his life had a positive impact and his legacy carries on. Much love - Migs

Posted by Margaret King on January 4, 2023

With all my love, I offer prayers of thankfulness for your father's many gifts to this world, peace for you to make it through this life disruption, and prayers for healing hearts because dealing with loss can be a painful and complex time for you and your family. I offer my condolences and support when you may need it most.

Posted by Chiaka Patterson on January 3, 2023

Our deepest sympathy to the Robinson Family. We pray you find comfort in the amazing memories, each other, friends, and family. Mr. Robinson was an amazing man who leaves behind a rich legacy. May God be in the midst of your sorrow. Our condolences 🙏 Shanie and Family

Posted by Shanie Johnson Smith-Baugh on January 3, 2023

My condolences to Loretta and your children Louie. He was a wonderfully tall and handsome man. I enjoyed getting to know Louie for he short time he was at Heritage Green. Loretta, Louie couldn’t ask for a wonderful and dedicated wife. He was so blessed to have you in his life. My prayers to you all. You will be missed.

Posted by Jennifer Carson on January 3, 2023

My deepest condolences to the family. Mr. Robinson was truly an incredible person full of laughs. Praying that memories of him will forever warm your hearts ❤️

Posted by Rosiland on January 2, 2023

Louie was a fine man with a big heart who was dedicated to seeing that Lynchburg would have a Boys and Girls Club that served the entire community! He will be badly missed by the kids he influenced in his "adopted" city! May he rest in peace. Bill Blackwell Midlothian, VA

Posted by William Blackwell on December 22, 2022

Louie was dedicated to the Boys and Girls Club and had a huge inpact on its success in Lynchburg. He was also a great mentor for our son when he was preparing to be confirmed in the Episcopal Church. Louie was they type of person who inspired others. Terry and I were glad he lived in our neighborhood. He does indeed have his wings!!!

Posted by Liza Sanders on December 22, 2022

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