Mr.Robert Lumpkin Jr.

When on my day the evening shadows fall,
I will go down to where a quiet river flows
Into a sea from whence no man returns;
And there embark for lands where life
immortal grows.

Obituary

A Life of Faith, Service, and Love

Robert Lumpkin, Jr., affectionately known as "Robert Jr." and "Rab," was born on
November 10, 1942, in Perry, Georgia, to the late Robert and Anna Mae Duhart
Lumpkin. As the eldest of fourteen children, Robert grew up with a profound sense
of responsibility, leadership, and compassion-qualities that would define his
entire life. He entered eternal rest at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy deeply
rooted in faith, family, service, and perseverance.

Early Life and Family

Growing up in a large and loving household, Robert embraced the role of protector,
mentor, and guide to his younger siblings. His parents instilled in him the values of
hard work, integrity, and generosity, shaping the man who would later become a
pillar of his community. Though three of his siblings, Joseph, Vanessa, and Randy
preceded him in death, Robert never stopped honoring their memory and caring for
the family they shared.
In 1960, he graduated from Houston County Training School, where he was known
for his work ethic, humor, and natural leadership. Shortly after graduating, Robert
began building the foundation of a lifelong career defined by determination,
ingenuity, and faith.

Marriage and Fatherhood

In 1965, Robert married the love of his life, Gaynell Adams, and together they
built a strong, enduring partnership that lasted 60 years. Their marriage was rooted
in mutual respect, trust, and unwavering love. They raised two sons, Corey and
Alex, and later embraced the joy of becoming grandparents to twin
granddaughters, Alexa and Alonda. Robert took tremendous pride in his family,
finding his greatest joy in watching his sons grow into men of character and seeing
his granddaughters flourish.
He and Gaynell also opened their home and heart to his sister, Catherine, raising
her as a daughter and ensuring she had the love and support she needed to thrive.

Entrepreneurial Legacy

Robert was a visionary entrepreneur whose contributions shaped the economic
landscape of Perry, Georgia. As the owner of Lumpkin Shell Service Center-later
Lumpkin Service Center-he created a family-centered, community-rooted
establishment recognized as the oldest African American–owned business in the
city.
His work ethic was legendary. Whether pumping gas, repairing engines, or
mentoring young people, Robert took pride in every detail. His service station was
more than a business-it was a gathering place, a safe haven, and a cornerstone of
the community.
Not one to limit himself, Robert expanded his entrepreneurial footprint by owning
or investing in a wide range of ventures. These included L&C Lounge (Disco
Village), The Long Branch restaurant and café, The Dodge House rooming
house, B&G Auto Sales, New Hope Grocery, The Fish N Chic take-out
restaurant, and Durr Fashions clothing store. His business acumen extended far
beyond storefronts-Robert also built a substantial portfolio of residential and
commercial real estate and even developed an entire subdivision. Each endeavor
stands as a testament to his determination, vision, and unwavering commitment to
creating opportunities and generational wealth.

Community Leadership and Advocacy

Robert's impact reached far beyond his businesses. He was a civil rights activist
who believed in the power of collective action and the necessity of standing up for
justice. His involvement in community affairs and his candidacy for Perry City
Council reflected his dedication to uplifting those around him. Even though he did
not win the election, his influence on local progress and advocacy was undeniable.
He received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his life, but Robert
remained humble, insisting that service-not accolades-was the true measure of a
meaningful life.

A Life of Faith and Service

A devoted member of St. James CME Church, Robert lived his faith through
action. He also served as a Trustee and Usher until his health failed. He took to
heart the words of Christ:
"When I was hungry, you gave me food; when I was thirsty, you gave me drink;
when I was a stranger, you welcomed me; when I was naked, you clothed me."
It was not uncommon for Robert to offer food, clothing, or shelter to those in need.
Many people-some known, some strangers-found comfort through his
generosity. He opened his doors to the unhoused, provided meals to the hungry,
and extended kindness without judgment or expectation. These quiet acts of mercy
often took place long before dawn or long after the world had gone to sleep. Very
few people knew the full extent of what he did for others, because he believed true
service required no audience.
In living this way, Robert embodied what it means to walk in faith, compassion,
and humility. His everyday acts of kindness became a ministry of their own,
touching countless lives.

A Legacy That Lives On

Robert's life was defined not only by what he accomplished, but by how he
lived-with resilience, conviction, grace, and a heart for humanity. His legacy lives
on through his beloved wife, children, granddaughters, siblings, extended family,
and the many individuals who were shaped by his generosity and leadership.
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 60 years, Gaynell Adams Lumpkin;
sons Corey (Maria) Lumpkin and Alex (Fonda) Lumpkin; sister-daughter
Catherine L. Johnson (Larry); granddaughters Alexa and Alonda Lumpkin; his
siblings Patricia L. Jefferson, Gwendolyn L. Woodward, Carl Lumpkin
(Kimberly), Vanna L. Brown, Wanda L. Parker, Debra L. Presswood
(Andrew), Yetoria L. DeShazier, Sebastian Lumpkin (Eunice), Quinn
Lumpkin (Melanie), and Ernest (Angela) Stripling; in-laws Quillie Odom
(Angela) and Hilda Adams (Hatchel, deceased); godchildren Lawrence (Fran)
Goss, III, LaRue (Flozell) Harden and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and
friends.

Robert's journey reminds us of the scripture: "To be absent from the body is to be
present with the Lord."

A life well lived; he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations
to come.

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