Ethel Robinson

Mrs. Ethel Allen Robinson was born on March 2, 1933, in Durham, North Carolina, to the late Edward A. Allen and Cora Page Allen. She peacefully departed this life on September 7, 2025, surrounded by love and family.
Ethel was a proud graduate of Hillside High School, Class of 1951, and went on to further her education at North Carolina Central University.
On June 16, 1953, she married the love of her life, James Edward Robinson. Together they were blessed with two children: a son, Ronald Robinson, and a daughter, Jo Ann Robinson.
Ethel accepted Christ at an early age, joining Mount Zion Church in Durham, NC. Later in life, she became a faithful member of St. Matthew AME Church in Burlington, NC, where she worshiped and served until her passing.
Throughout her life, Ethel broke many barriers. She became the first Black executive assistant to the Agricultural Extension Service in Graham, North Carolina - a role that paved the way for others. She also shared her time and talents as a trainer with the Alamance County Beauty Pageant Association.
Ethel will be remembered for her strength, grace, and unwavering love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her warmth and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Edward Robinson; her son, Ronald Edward Robinson (Pecolia); her sister, Wilma Allen Smith; and her brothers Marvin L. Allen, Edward A. Allen, Haywood Allen Sr., and Langston Allen.
She leaves to cherish her memory: daughters Jo "Gigi" Townsend and Pecolia Robinson; granddaughter Natanyi Townsend; great-granddaughter Nova Townsend. She is also lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Ethel Allen Robinson's legacy is one of love, perseverance, and trailblazing service. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Services
Public Viewing/walk through
Thursday
September 11, 2025
1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Sharpe Funeral Home, Inc,
520 Rosenwald St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Wake-with the Family present
Friday
September 12, 2025
11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
St. Matthews African Methodist Episcopal Church
1136 Apple St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Funeral Service
Friday
September 12, 2025
12:00 PM
St. Matthews African Methodist Episcopal Church
1136 Apple St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Interment following funeral service
Friday
September 12, 2025
Beechwood Cemetery
3300 Fayetteville St.
Durham, NC 27707