William G. Robbins

1935 - 2024

William G. Robbins

August 13, 1935 - June 17, 2024

Lexington, Kentucky - William Glen Robbins was born in Maysville, Kentucky on Tuesday, August 13, 1935. He passed away peacefully at his home in Lexington on June 17, 2024.

Bill's family moved to Lexington in 1936 where he called home for the next 87 years. He went to Ashland Elementary School, Morton Middle School, Henry Clay High School and graduated with a degree in economics from the University of Kentucky in 1956.

Upon his graduation, Bill was drafted into the US Navy and served under Admiral John S. McCain, Sr. whom he greatly admired. After his naval duty, Bill returned to Lexington and entered into a long career in the insurance business. He met his supportive and loving wife, Jessica V. LeBus, in 1959, and they were married in 1961.

From their marriage, they were blessed with three children, Pattie R. Broadbent (Happy), Earl G. Robbins, MD (Ashley), and William L. Robbins (Elizabeth); eight grandchildren, Quin Broadbent (Mary), Field Broadbent (Kelly), Lisle Broadbent, Claire Robbins, Kate Robbins, Will Robbins, Caroline Robbins and Gordon Robbins; and four great grandchildren, George Broadbent, Richard "Fox" Broadbent VI, Brady Broadbent and Liam Broadbent. He was the grateful son of Sue D. and Earl G. Robbins (who also was born on Tuesday, August 13th as was Bill's youngest son). He leaves behind his loving brother, Robert E. Robbins, MD, his wife Rita and their family of Elizabethtown, Kentucky. He also leaves behind his loving sister and "lifetime sidekick," Sylvia R. Griffin of Lexington and her family.

In the insurance industry, Bill chaired or served on several industry boards, and in his community, he had a number of favorite causes. He chaired the Boards of the Lexington Hearing and Speech Center, Sayre School, and the Lexington Cancer Society. He also served on the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation Board, the Kentucky American Cancer Society Board, and he chaired the Mid-South Division Board of the American Cancer Society. He also helped found the Lexington Hope Lodge of which he was extremely proud.

Bill was a cancer survivor of more than 30 years. The residual effects of his successful treatment tested him, and as with many tests, he more than met the challenge with humility and determination. Role modeling both survivorship and selflessness, he subsequently walked the oncology/chemotherapy floors at various hospitals visiting with cancer patients.

Bill had a number of hobbies including bid spotting at Fasig-Tipton auctions for nearly 50 years where he made many great memories and even greater friends. He owned horses for many years, both thoroughbreds and standardbreds. He loved farming and gardening on Ivywood, the family farm. Lastly, he was a member of Idle Hour Country Club, Thoroughbred Club of America, Keeneland Club, and Sam's Club.

And, if that last line is any indication, he had a wonderful sense of humor. He provided much of the inspiration for this obituary and included a few quotes that captured his zest for life.

On horse racing: "The elation of winning outweighs the agony of losing!"

On his accomplishments: "[I was] very proud of the Hope Lodge and the service it provides to many people and their families…and also proud of those that I brought into the insurance business and their successes."

On family: "[I was] most proud of our children and their accomplishments and our grandchildren….they are so special. They all mean more to us than they could possibly imagine."

He, too, meant more to us than he possibly could have imagined. He was a captivating storyteller of his youthful adventures. He had a magnetic personality that led to an abundance of friends. He practiced gratitude and forgiveness, served with a loving heart, respected others with an open mind and was selflessly kind. We will do our best to uphold the many lessons he taught us.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 26th from 4:30-7:30pm at Kerr Brothers on Main Street. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 27th at 10am at Lexington Cemetery for family and close friends though all are welcome.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the Lexington Hope Lodge, Lexington Hearing and Speech Center or Berea College.