Robert Preston Robinson

Robert Preston Robinson was born on April 8, 1942, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to the late Ben Leon Robinson and Cora Elizabeth Blanton Robinson. His soul was gently called home by the Lord on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 12:21 a.m. at Atrium Health Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Robert—affectionately known as Bob or Bobby—grew up in Fayetteville alongside his beloved siblings: his brother, Furman, and two sisters, Kathy and Carol. He cherished them deeply throughout his life.

On August 23, 1960, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force as an Apprentice Heating Specialist. He proudly served his country and was honorably discharged as an Airman Second Class (E-3) on May 22, 1964. During his service, he was assigned tothe 809th Civil Engineering Squadron at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming.

Following his military service, Robert worked in several fields—including as a truck driver for Lieber’s Sanitation and as a Weaver/Warp Hanger with Burlington Industries—but the role he took the greatest pride in was serving as a Logistics Management Specialist for the Department of the Army. Over the course of 27dedicated years, he earned multiple Exceptional Performance Awards before retiring on March 30, 2001. His awards spanned the following periods: April 1, 1986 – April 30, 1987, May 1, 1989 – August 16, 1990, August 17, 1990 – April 30, 1991, May 6, 1991 – April 30, 1992, and November 1, 1996 – October 31, 1997.

In the late 1980s, Robert became a familiar face at the 301 Truck Stop Restaurant in Fayetteville, where he came daily to enjoy lunch, read his books, and—most importantly—win the heart of a kind waitress named Ann Patterson. His persistence and devotion paid off, and on May 19, 1990, he married the love of his life, Ann Patterson Robinson of Dunn, North Carolina. They shared 19 wonderful years in Fayetteville before moving to Charlotte in 2009, where they made their home together.

Robert lived his life with quiet humility, unwavering faith, and a heart full of generosity. His gentle spirit touched everyone around him. He cherished time with his family and friends, especially his youngest grandchildren—Deja, Deondrey Jr. (DJ), and Kyleigh—who brought him immense joy. Some of his happiest moments were spent fishing and eating Klondike bars with his brother-in-law, Doug, creating memories he held dear. Robert loved to tell stories, and no matter the subject, he always had one to share—each filled with wisdom, humor, or a bit of both.

Robert’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and integrity. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—one that will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Robert was proceeded in death by his father and mother, Ben Leon Robinson and Cora Elizabeth Blanton Robinson, as well as granddaughter Kiara Ann Woolford.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 35 years, Ann Patterson Robinson; children: Donnell Woolford, Wayne (Rhoda) Woolford, Lyndell (Osipa) Woolford, Chris Woolford (Karen Reynolds), and Jennifer (Deondrey) Ellis; grandchildren: Chad Woolford, Cara Wisely, Jonathan Woolford, Ashley Woolford, Sydnee Woolford, Jovaun Woolford, Isaiah Woolford, Aaron Woolford, Deja Ellis, Deondrey Ellis Jr., and Kyleigh Ellis; great-grandchildren: Aiden Woolford, Willow Wisely, and John Wisely III.; siblings: Furman (Margaret) Robinson, Carol (Douglas) White, and Kathy (Wayne) Edwards; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members and friends to celebrate wonderful memories.

Robert's funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 10:30 am in Sullivan's Highland Chapel with Pastor David Patterson and Rev. Charles Young presiding.  The burial with military honors will follow at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery at noon.

Prior to the service the family will receive friends from 10 to 10:30 am at the funeral home.