Sunday, November 21, 2021
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James E. Robinson III, known by some as J.R., proud and lifelong resident of East Orange, NJ, departed this life on November 4, 2021, at Overlook Hospital in Summit, NJ.
Jimmy, who was the first born of Josephine and James Robinson, Jr’s three sons, entered this life on August 6, 1951, in Orange, NJ at St. Mary’s Hospital.
He went to Columbian grammar school where his prowess in sports were first evidenced. Like most East Orange High School, graduates, Jimmy was proud of his legacy as a Panther who distinguished himself as an outstanding athlete. He enjoyed reminiscing about the highlights of his days, as a 4 year member of the baseball, football and basketball teams, while also managing his studies and being a member of the EOHS Marching 100 Band. He continued his education at Newbury College, in Brookline, MA, a New England Collegiate Conference school, where he continued excelling both athletically and academically, as verified by the trophies and awards accumulated during his high school and college days.
Jimmy returned to his hometown of East Orange, where he spent a few years working with the city’s administration before moving on to an administrative position at United Parcel Service, where he worked for several years. He also worked for Mitchell Supreme, Santini & Sons, Joseph Cory Moving Company and Gem Limousine Service.
Even after college, Jimmy was still recognized on the basketball courts of the Oval, Elmwood, and Columbian for his athletic skill. He could be found there, sharing stories with his peers and coaching younger players to greatness. He even spent a few years playing in the Third World Softball League.
Along with sports, Jimmy had other interests. He was a Renaissance Man, who was an avid reader. Politics and African American Culture were some of his favorite topics of discussion. He loved to fix and assemble any and everything. He had a tool and a gadget for everything. JIMMY LOVED FOOD! He was known for, being the official, “Down the Way Gourmet”, sharing his food experiences with his loved ones and inspiring them to explore and sample such culinary offerings as TURKEY BUTTS from a spot in Camden, NJ, Cheesesteaks and Chocolate Soda from Steve’s Prince of Steaks in Philly or SOUL FOOD from any deserving spot in the Essex County area. But, if you wanted to earn points with Jimmy, you couldn’t do much better than a sandwich from the shop of his long-time friend, Randy, owner of SANDWICHES UNLIMITED.
Jimmy also was a connoisseur of good music. He loved Jazz and classic R&B. Some of his favorite artists were Grover Washington Jr., George Duke and his main man Frankie Beverly and Maze, having selected, “HAPPY FEELINGS” for his dance with his daughter Jerri, at her wedding. A beautiful and unforgettable moment for them both, as well as every guest watching from their seats.
James E. Robinson, III, was pre-deceased by his parents, Josephine and James Robinson, Jr., as well as his younger brother, Donald. He is survived by his youngest brother Ray S. Robinson, daughter, Jerri M. Gaston-Cox, her husband Kevin L. Cox, their daughter, his beloved grand-daughter, Jelan Amari Gaston and a host of other relatives and friends, who he leaves to cherish the memories of how he touched their lives.
“The most important purpose of education is to create in a person, the ability to look at the world for himself, and make his own decisions.” – James Baldwin
