Charles "Charlie" Robinson Jr.

Charles was born on October 4, 1950, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Bertha and Charlie Robinson. In 1956, he moved with his family to East St. Louis, Illinois, where he attended Cahokia High School. It was there that his lifelong passions for athletics, leadership, and service began to take shape.

After graduating in 1969, Charles joined the U.S. Navy Reserve with aspirations of attending the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He became a midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Management. While at the Academy, Charles distinguished himself not only academically but athletically as well, competing in football, basketball, and track.

Upon graduation, Charles was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Serving honorably for 26 years as a communications officer, he held assignments across the United States and around the world. He retired in 1999 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, leaving behind a legacy of exemplary leadership and dedication. During his military career, he also earned a master's degree from Bowie State University. After retiring from the Marine Corps, Charles continued his service to the nation at the Pentagon with the Joint Staff, J-6, as a contractor (SAIC) and as a government employee, GS-15, retiring in 2015.

Charles was married to his beloved wife and hometown sweetheart, Linda Robinson, a registered nurse. Their loving marriage was blessed with two daughters, Ebony Mizell and Amber Maurer, and five cherished grandchildren: Aidan, Isaiah, Charlie Rae, Rome, and Robbi, who brought him immense pride and joy.

A life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a proud member of the American Legion, Charles remained deeply committed to his community. For nearly 20 years, he coached football and track and field with the New Carrollton, Maryland, Boys & Girls Club, mentoring and inspiring countless young people through discipline, encouragement, and example.

Charles Robinson, Jr. leaves behind a powerful legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering devotion to family and community. He will be profoundly missed by all who were blessed to know him. He is survived by his lovely wife, Linda Robinson, and beautiful daughters, Ebony Robinson Mizell and Amber Maurer; grandchildren Aidan, Isaiah, Charlie (his namesake), Rome and Robbi; brothers Bobby Broaden and Samuel Robinson; and sisters Shirley Harmon, Diane Robinson, Mary Lou Robinson. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church of Highland Park on January 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a veterans' organization of choice in his honor.