Howard E. Robinson, Sr.

Mr. Howard E. Robinson, Sr., a popular educator in Mecklenburg County that taught more than 10,000 students, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2024, after celebrating his 102nd birthday earlier this year. He was born on February 1, 1922, in Chase City, VA and was the youngest of ten children born to Robert and Mary Robinson.

He attended Thyne Institute, a school that educated Black students during the Jim Crow segregation era. It was established by the United Presbyterian Church. Howard was the valedictorian of his graduating class. He attended Virginia State College (now Virginia State University). After his college graduation, Howard returned to Thyne Institute to begin his career in education, where he taught Geography and English.

Following his first year of teaching, Howard was drafted into World War II. He served for two years, primarily in Oklahoma. After he was honorably discharged from the Army, Howard returned to Thyne Institute to teach for more than fifteen years. He then transferred to Mecklenburg County Public Schools, where he taught, inspired, and supported high school students for nearly thirty-five years.

During his college days, Howard met the love of his life, Anna L. Smith, and they eloped and were married on January 1, 1951. They produced one son, Howard E. Robinson, Jr. (Howie). Howard and Anna built a life in Chase City, VA, where he was very active in the broader community including holding leadership positions in: Thyne Memorial Presbyterian Church, Chase City Credit Union, and the Elk Lodge.

Howard was predeceased by his parents, siblings, and wife Anna. He is survived by his loving and devoted son Howie. He is also survived by nephews and nieces: Furman Robinson, Jr. (Elaine), Donald Robinson, Delores Bowling, Carolyn Martin, Theresa Thornton, Harvey Robinson; four goddaughters: Chris Harris-Lipford (Paul), Greta Harris, Kimberly Harris Singh (Kewal), and Terrie Harris; and a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Howard E. Robinson, Sr. will be conducted 2:00 P.M. Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Giles-Harris Funeral Home, Chase City, VA with Rev. George Wilson, officiating. Burial will follow in Thyne Memorial Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Chase City, VA. Public viewing for family and friends will be held prior to the service Noon to 1:45 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Howard’s memory. Please direct contributions to the Thyne Institute Memorial, Inc., P.O. Box 222, Chase City, VA, 23924.

Arrangements are by Giles-Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chase City, VA.