Willie C. Robinson

Willie C. Robinson NINETY SIX -- Ms. Willie Clifton Robinson, a resident of Ninety Six, SC, left her earthly home on Thursday the 2nd of July 2015. "Tootsie," as she was affectionately called, was born on December 21, 1929 in Ninety Six to Mrs. Janie Beth and Mr. Wallace Robinson, Sr. Tootsie graduated from Ninety Six High School in 1946 and began her college career at Voorhees College in Denmark, SC. She continued her education at South Carolina State College, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of Science Degree in Education. She continued her studies through Clemson University and the University of South Carolina. Tootsie received many awards and accolades as a result of her tireless efforts, civic mindedness and community and church involvement. Tootsie's career as an educator began in Batesburg, SC, and continued in Ninety Six when she returned home to teach. She was an iconic first grade teacher. Her teaching career spanned over forty years. Ms. Robinson has many former students in Greenwood County proper, within and outside the state of South Carolina. A few years ago, to her delight, she was honored by some of her former students. Tootsie's teaching talents were well known and respected by her colleagues, parents and students. Her dedication to high instructional standards prepared numerous students for later academic success. She also mentored and nurtured many aspiring teachers. When she retired from Ninety Six Elementary School District in 1985, the teaching profession lost a valuable asset but her educational influence will live on for generations. In addition to her primary profession, Tootsie worked side by side with her parents on a side venture "hard wood floor refinishing." They were a "team" of three. She enjoyed quilting, often helping to restore heirloom quilts for friends. Tootsie was also a fixture at Greens Grocery with her sister Dorothy (Dot) and brother-in-law Johnny. She supplied many Lakelands area fishermen and women with minnows (of which counting them was not her favorite thing to do), and gas, which she pumped diligently. Tootsie served voluntarily as the Bethlehem Baptist Church Secretary for forty plus years, where she was a devoted life-long member. She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Greenwood Alumnae Chapter and a fifty-year member of the South Carolina Family and Community Leaders. Tootsie loved flowers, geraniums in particular and recently found a great liking for Knockout roses. She was instrumental in chartering the Pyracantha Garden Club. Her immaculately kept home, yard and flowers were her signature. She did her own yard work well into her seventies! Southern Living and Good Housekeeping, her favorite magazines, (which she generously shared subscriptions to), came second to her Bible. Tootsie was grateful for God's many blessings. From the elegance of her appearance, to the pristine and tasteful way she maintained her home, she honored our Savior in everything she did. Tootsie was predeceased by her mother and father, brother Wallace Jr., and brother-in-law John L. Green. She is survived by her sister, Mrs. Dorothy Green, (often referred to as her twin); a beloved and devoted friend of many years, Mr. David Haynes; and numerous cousins, all of whom she loved and cherished. She also leaves Ms. Harriette Jenerette (Pendarves) and Harrison, whom she claimed as her daughter and grandson. Tootsie gave from the heart, neither expecting nor wanting anything in return. She was a mother figure, friend, encourager, nurturer, confidant, and involved community member. The influence of her work ethic, faith in God and wholesome thinking and actions will live on through the many people whose lives she affected. Tootsie will be missed but we thank God for bringing her into our lives. She will forever remain in our hearts. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at Bethlehem Baptist Church, conducted by Pastor James W. Price. The body will be placed in the church at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in the Evening Star Cemetery. The family is at the home of a sister, Dorothy Green, 109 Dogwood Drive. Online condolences may be sent to robson@nctv.com. Arrangements are being handled by Robinson & Son Mortuary, Inc.


This obituary was originally published in The Index-Journal (Greenwood, SC).