Bruce DeWayne Robinson
1959 - 2026
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Bruce's Story
Bruce DeWayne Robinson, a much-loved father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, devoted man of faith, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2026. He was surrounded by the deep and steady love of his family, who stood close, witnessing his unwavering faith to the very end.
Bruce was born on December 22, 1959, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Martin Robert Robinson and Marguerite Cummings Robinson. He was raised in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he laid the foundation for the life he would go on to build. He graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1978 while simultaneously earning a certification in Printing from BOCES.
Bruce was a devoted Jehovah's Witness and a man of deep faith. He held firmly to his beliefs and did his best to live by them each day. He was a kind man at heart, and his love, sincerity, and faith were evident to those who knew him well. Bruce found joy in sharing his hope for the future, the promise of everlasting life. He believed this life is temporary, and that if he were to fall asleep in death, he would awaken again free from illness and pain.
He was a man of many skills and talents. As a teenager, his father taught him and his brother Joseph how to repair electronics such as televisions and VCRs, something Bruce had little interest in at the time. Yet later in life, he would draw on those same skills in his work, even passing that knowledge on to his daughter Brittany, teaching her how to fix things as well. During his teenage summers, Bruce also worked alongside his Uncle Philip Lewis, learning the art of masonry, hands-on work that stayed with him as he grew.
After graduating high school, he went on to serve as a volunteer at the World Headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses in Brooklyn, New York, where he was able to put his printing skills to use in a meaningful way. Over time, he carried those experiences with him, working in the printing department at the Poughkeepsie Journal and later serving as a manager at the Culinary Institute of America.
Learning how to play cards was simply part of growing up in the Cummings family. Bruce's grandparents, Myrtle and Bill Elting, loved to play cards, and it wasn't just the game, it was the flair of it. Voices rising and falling, people jumping to their feet with excitement, the room alive with energy. They taught Bruce all they knew, and he was a natural. He came to love a good game, often spending hours playing with his family and friends, caught up in the excitement. Whether it was Pac-Man, bowling, shooting pool, playing cards, or showcasing his skill as a masterful chess player, Bruce brought that same energy to it all.
It was in his 30s that Bruce became known to many as "Speedy," a nickname earned at the bowling alley where his ball seemed to glide down the lane with effortless precision. He was both competitive and playful, always thinking a few moves ahead while never missing a chance to laugh. He had a great personality and was known for keeping those around him laughing.
He truly never met a stranger, and it was not uncommon for people to ask, "Where's Bruce?" when he wasn't around.
Bruce grew up with an amazing group of friends who became like family to him, proudly calling them the Penfield-Canada-Robinson crew. They lived side by side in Martin Luther King Gardens, Building 2, Apartments 1A, 2A, and 3A, doors always open, lives always intertwined.
As a youth, it was common to see them moving as a unit. The fields were alive with their games, football and basketball, day after day, laughter echoing through the neighborhood as they played and lingered in conversation long after the sun began to set.
They were always together, talking, joking, shooting the breeze, growing up side by side in a community they could count on. From youth into adulthood, they remained together, working in the ministry, attending conventions, gathering for cookouts, hosting parties, and traveling near and far, moving through life the same way they always had, as one.
In the midst of it all, Bruce would listen, quietly taking in the voices of his father, Brother Canada, and Brother Penfield, wisdom passed down in brief, meaningful moments. It was in his later years that he realized this wisdom had stayed with him for a lifetime. He loved the Penfield-Canada-Robinson crew dearly.
He was also a man of simple, meaningful pleasures. Bruce loved to cook, and his kitchen was a place where memories were made. The aroma of pepper steak and rice would fill the air, a meal his family came to know and love. It was his signature dish. His children remember the early morning breakfasts, the quiet start of the day, and the afternoons when the scent of fresh cookies baking meant something warm was on the way. They didn't have to ask, they already knew. Those small, everyday moments became some of the most treasured. Serving his family was one of his greatest joys.
His children also remember the joy of time spent with their father at carnivals, enjoying rides, sharing funnel cakes, and cooling off with snow cones. Those days, along with special restaurant outings, were filled with laughter and a sense of togetherness that stayed with them.
Family was at the center of everything Bruce did. He stayed closely connected to those he loved, faithfully calling his mother and children each day, a simple but meaningful expression of his affection.
Later in life, Bruce faced serious health challenges, but he met them with a fierce will to live. There was never any doubt that he was a fighter. His strength and determination became a source of encouragement and inspiration to those around him.
Bruce was previously married to Pamela Young, and from this union came three beloved daughters. Being a father was one of his greatest joys, and he carried that role with pride, humor, and a steady presence.
Bruce is survived by his daughters Brittany N. Sparrow (Joseph), Brandy L. Robinson, and a bonus daughter, Tiffany N. Payne; his loving mother, Marguerite Cummings Robinson; his brothers Joseph G. Robinson (Sonya), Martin R. Robinson Jr. aka Charlie (LaTrecia), and James S. Robinson; and his sisters Diana L. Robinson (Michael), Dina L. Bingham (Aaron), and Damaris R. Robinson. He was preceded in death by his father, his beloved grandparents, and his bonus brother, Eugene L. Cummings.
Bruce was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Deja, Tiani, Gerald, Sapphire, Joseph, and London, whom he affectionately called "Bridges," as well as his "mini-me," Dante. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Aurelia, Tahlia, and Carter.
Being a grandfather was the highlight of his life. He treasured every moment he was able to spend with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whether in person or on FaceTime. Those moments meant everything to him. He lived for them, spoke of them often, and carried a deep love and pride for each of them in his heart.
Throughout his life, Bruce was surrounded by a circle of brothers in love, Philip Germano, Lloyd Canada, Mark Pegg, David Roberts, Micheal Penfield, Aaron Bingham, Kenny Blackman, Ronald Luciano, Elijah Severance, and Bill Darden, men who stood beside him, showing up with steady support, quiet acts of kindness, and a bond that never wavered.
He also held close his mother in love, Bertha Penfield, and was preceded in death by his mother in love, Charlotte White. He cherished them both.
Bruce is lovingly remembered by his aunts and uncles, William Elting Jr. (Yukie); Denise Davis (Larry); Wanda Elting; Robert Elting; Barbara Baker; and Penelope Lewis, wife of his late great-uncle Philip Lewis, along with his nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of extended family and dear friends, too many to name personally, but know that you are loved and remembered.
His presence, his humor, and his love will continue to live on in the hearts of his mother, children, grandchildren, siblings, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Montefiore Hospital, Hartford Hospital, and the Hospital for Special Care. A special and heartfelt acknowledgment goes to Dr. Mansour and Nursing Director Julian Silva for their attentive, personal, and dedicated commitment to his care.
Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing Friday April 10th at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 76 Daley Road, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603. Interment immediately following at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.
For those unable to attend in person, the service will also be available via Zoom:
Meeting ID: 846-5402-5797
Passcode: 415299
Bruce DeWayne Robinson, a much-loved father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, devoted man of faith, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2026. He was surrounded by the deep and steady love of his family, who stood close, witnessing his unwavering faith to the very end.
Bruce was born on December 22, 1959, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Martin Robert Robinson and Marguerite Cummings Robinson. He was raised in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he laid the foundation for the life he would go on to build. He graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1978 while simultaneously earning a certification in Printing from BOCES.
Bruce was a devoted Jehovah's Witness and a man of deep faith. He held firmly to his beliefs and did his best to live by them each day. He was a kind man at heart, and his love, sincerity, and faith were evident to those who knew him well. Bruce found joy in sharing his hope for the future, the promise of everlasting life. He believed this life is temporary, and that if he were to fall asleep in death, he would awaken again free from illness and pain.
He was a man of many skills and talents. As a teenager, his father taught him and his brother Joseph how to repair electronics such as televisions and VCRs, something Bruce had little interest in at the time. Yet later in life, he would draw on those same skills in his work, even passing that knowledge on to his daughter Brittany, teaching her how to fix things as well. During his teenage summers, Bruce also worked alongside his Uncle Philip Lewis, learning the art of masonry, hands-on work that stayed with him as he grew.
After graduating high school, he went on to serve as a volunteer at the World Headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses in Brooklyn, New York, where he was able to put his printing skills to use in a meaningful way. Over time, he carried those experiences with him, working in the printing department at the Poughkeepsie Journal and later serving as a manager at the Culinary Institute of America.
Learning how to play cards was simply part of growing up in the Cummings family. Bruce's grandparents, Myrtle and Bill Elting, loved to play cards, and it wasn't just the game, it was the flair of it. Voices rising and falling, people jumping to their feet with excitement, the room alive with energy. They taught Bruce all they knew, and he was a natural. He came to love a good game, often spending hours playing with his family and friends, caught up in the excitement. Whether it was Pac-Man, bowling, shooting pool, playing cards, or showcasing his skill as a masterful chess player, Bruce brought that same energy to it all.
It was in his 30s that Bruce became known to many as "Speedy," a nickname earned at the bowling alley where his ball seemed to glide down the lane with effortless precision. He was both competitive and playful, always thinking a few moves ahead while never missing a chance to laugh. He had a great personality and was known for keeping those around him laughing.
He truly never met a stranger, and it was not uncommon for people to ask, "Where's Bruce?" when he wasn't around.
Bruce grew up with an amazing group of friends who became like family to him, proudly calling them the Penfield-Canada-Robinson crew. They lived side by side in Martin Luther King Gardens, Building 2, Apartments 1A, 2A, and 3A, doors always open, lives always intertwined.
As a youth, it was common to see them moving as a unit. The fields were alive with their games, football and basketball, day after day, laughter echoing through the neighborhood as they played and lingered in conversation long after the sun began to set.
They were always together, talking, joking, shooting the breeze, growing up side by side in a community they could count on. From youth into adulthood, they remained together, working in the ministry, attending conventions, gathering for cookouts, hosting parties, and traveling near and far, moving through life the same way they always had, as one.
In the midst of it all, Bruce would listen, quietly taking in the voices of his father, Brother Canada, and Brother Penfield, wisdom passed down in brief, meaningful moments. It was in his later years that he realized this wisdom had stayed with him for a lifetime. He loved the Penfield-Canada-Robinson crew dearly.
He was also a man of simple, meaningful pleasures. Bruce loved to cook, and his kitchen was a place where memories were made. The aroma of pepper steak and rice would fill the air, a meal his family came to know and love. It was his signature dish. His children remember the early morning breakfasts, the quiet start of the day, and the afternoons when the scent of fresh cookies baking meant something warm was on the way. They didn't have to ask, they already knew. Those small, everyday moments became some of the most treasured. Serving his family was one of his greatest joys.
His children also remember the joy of time spent with their father at carnivals, enjoying rides, sharing funnel cakes, and cooling off with snow cones. Those days, along with special restaurant outings, were filled with laughter and a sense of togetherness that stayed with them.
Family was at the center of everything Bruce did. He stayed closely connected to those he loved, faithfully calling his mother and children each day, a simple but meaningful expression of his affection.
Later in life, Bruce faced serious health challenges, but he met them with a fierce will to live. There was never any doubt that he was a fighter. His strength and determination became a source of encouragement and inspiration to those around him.
Bruce was previously married to Pamela Young, and from this union came three beloved daughters. Being a father was one of his greatest joys, and he carried that role with pride, humor, and a steady presence.
Bruce is survived by his daughters Brittany N. Sparrow (Joseph), Brandy L. Robinson, and a bonus daughter, Tiffany N. Payne; his loving mother, Marguerite Cummings Robinson; his brothers Joseph G. Robinson (Sonya), Martin R. Robinson Jr. aka Charlie (LaTrecia), and James S. Robinson; and his sisters Diana L. Robinson (Michael), Dina L. Bingham (Aaron), and Damaris R. Robinson. He was preceded in death by his father, his beloved grandparents, and his bonus brother, Eugene L. Cummings.
Bruce was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Deja, Tiani, Gerald, Sapphire, Joseph, and London, whom he affectionately called "Bridges," as well as his "mini-me," Dante. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Aurelia, Tahlia, and Carter.
Being a grandfather was the highlight of his life. He treasured every moment he was able to spend with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whether in person or on FaceTime. Those moments meant everything to him. He lived for them, spoke of them often, and carried a deep love and pride for each of them in his heart.
Throughout his life, Bruce was surrounded by a circle of brothers in love, Philip Germano, Lloyd Canada, Mark Pegg, David Roberts, Micheal Penfield, Aaron Bingham, Kenny Blackman, Ronald Luciano, Elijah Severance, and Bill Darden, men who stood beside him, showing up with steady support, quiet acts of kindness, and a bond that never wavered.
He also held close his mother in love, Bertha Penfield, and was preceded in death by his mother in love, Charlotte White. He cherished them both.
Bruce is lovingly remembered by his aunts and uncles, William Elting Jr. (Yukie); Denise Davis (Larry); Wanda Elting; Robert Elting; Barbara Baker; and Penelope Lewis, wife of his late great-uncle Philip Lewis, along with his nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of extended family and dear friends, too many to name personally, but know that you are loved and remembered.
His presence, his humor, and his love will continue to live on in the hearts of his mother, children, grandchildren, siblings, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Montefiore Hospital, Hartford Hospital, and the Hospital for Special Care. A special and heartfelt acknowledgment goes to Dr. Mansour and Nursing Director Julian Silva for their attentive, personal, and dedicated commitment to his care.
Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing Friday April 10th at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 76 Daley Road, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603. Interment immediately following at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.
For those unable to attend in person, the service will also be available via Zoom:
Meeting ID: 846-5402-5797
Passcode: 415299
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