CHAMPAIGN - Robin Lee Carr, 80, of Champaign, formerly of Normal, passed away at 10:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023, at Carle Foundation Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Robin was born Jan. 3, 1943, in Bloomington, a son of Charles and Marie Carr. He married his beloved Sharon (Cooper) 58 years ago and created a beautiful circle of family and friends.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Sharon; daughter, Deborah (Chris) Miller of Champaign; son, Kevin (Karen Stein) of Gurnee; and three granddaughters, Callie Miller of Colorado, Adele Miller of Champaign and Kinzie Carr of Gurnee. He will also be missed and remembered by his surviving and loving sister, brothers, in-laws, nieces, nephews and grandnieces and nephews, as well as so many kind and generous friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Charles Jr. and Jack, sister Sylvia Neal, brother-in-law Ronnie Neal and grandson Patrick Carr.

Robin graduated from Normal Community High School in 1961 and received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Illinois State University and his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He was a professor of English with a focus on children's literature at Illinois State University and belonged to several educational organizations. Robin was a beautiful storyteller and passionate advocate for reading and children's books. He gave the gift to many through books.

Robin served as a past master of Bloomington Lodge 43 and past commander-in-chief of the Scottish Rite of Bloomington and received the Honorary 33 degree in Pittsburgh in 1989.

A faithful follower of the Lord, he was active in numerous activities at First Baptist Church and gave many inspiring children's sermons.

He was one of the kindest, friendliest and giving souls who always tried to help others. His impact was felt by many.

Funeral services will be on Feb. 11 at First Baptist Church, 2502 E. College Ave., Bloomington. Visitation is to begin at 10 a.m. with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m. Donations can be made to First Baptist Church.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News-Gazette on Feb. 5, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Robin Carr

11 Entries

Tom Grubb

February 11, 2023

Sharon & Family,
Words simply are inadequate to express my deepest sympathy on Robin's passing! Robin was one of the kindest, most caring people I've ever had the pleasure to know. I think the world of him and you, Sharon! Unfortunately, I'm having a great deal of trouble with hips, knees and legs so I won't be able to attend Robin's service. I did send a candle arrangement to the service. Hopefully, it will provide you with some moments of meditation and reflection.
You are most definitely in my thoughts and prayers. If I can do anything to help, please let me know!

Diane Larkin

February 7, 2023

We were so very sorry to read of Lee's passing. Sharon, know that you and your family are in our prayers and thoughts. Take care.

Mary L. Knight

February 7, 2023

I was so sorry to hear about Robin´s death. We were in the Parkinson´s speak out group. We usually met on Tuesday mornings on Zoom. He was certainly one in a million! So please accept my condolences for him, he was a very good mam

All the best,
Msry Knight

Terri Ryburn

February 7, 2023

I took a storytelling class with Robin and we later became friends. I always enjoyed running into him and Sharon. He was always so kind and thoughtful. Thinking of you and sending love.

Beth Miller Downs

February 6, 2023

Mr. Carr lived 3 houses away from me as I grew up. He knew of my love of reading and would recommend titles or loan them to me. Her was also friends with my Mom, and they would talk about plants and birds and all sorts of outdoor topics My condolences to his wife, children and family.

Sharon Walsh

February 5, 2023

Robin was such a kind and thoughtful person. His gardening skills produced the most beautiful flowers. We were coworkers at the Academic Advisement Center at ISU, where he served as a faculty transfer for several years. Please accept my sincere condolences.

Mary K Ryan Brennan

February 5, 2023

Mr. Carr was one of my favorite teachers! He truly was a storyteller and engaged students through his innovative teaching methods. His encouragement to strive and create were outstanding! He taught me so much!
Mary K. Ryan Brennan

Sandra Bragg

February 5, 2023

Robin and Sharon will be greatly missed from the Champaign County Parkinson Disease Group. Their presence will be felt. Many hugs go out to Sharon.
Your Friend,
Sandr Bragg

Sheila Trembley

February 5, 2023

I was in a "kiddy lit" class taught by Mr. Carr. His magic worked on me and I became a school media specialist (librarian) for 36 years before I retired. Thank you, Mr. Carr, for unknowingly helping me find my passion and career.

Shirley Floyd

February 5, 2023

So sorry for you loss, ha was one of the kindest and sweet person I know He will be missed.

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