Gifford Eugene Robbins Jr.

While holding his hand and holding him close in our hearts, Gifford (Gip) E. Robbins, 78 (a mere five days from 79) passed from this world on April 11, 2016 surrounded by his family and friends. Gip was born in Norton, Virginia, in 1937, the second of six sons, to Gifford E. Sr., and Alma Province Robbins. In addition to his parents, Gip was preceded in death by his beloved older brother, Bill Robbins. Gip attended the Newport News Shipyard Apprentice School in the late 1950’s, and worked there, beside men who are good friends to this day. He has lived in Charlottesville for the past 36 years with his loving wife, Joyce Wilkins Robbins. He enjoyed his many years as a devoted realtor. Gip is also survived by his son, Skip, and wife Patti, of Barnegat, New Jersey; son Joe and wife Cathy, of Estero, Florida; and his four beautiful grandchildren, Sam, Courtney, Nicole, and Carly. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Fred and Cheryl, James and Terry, Joe and Tommye Jean, Tom and Eileen, Jody Robbins, and Gerald and Pat Wilkins. He loved his family especially his grandchildren, his backyard song birds, his Dallas Cowboys, , his rock solid daily routines, and any opportunity to tell a joke or funny story. He would sing at the drop of a hat and entertained family and friends alike, until all were doubled over by his wit and humor. We thank you dear Gip for all the love, laughter, and unending support you gave every one of us. While the loss of you leaves us all heartbroken, it also leaves us better people for having had you in our lives. The family will receive friends on Sunday evening, April 17, 2016 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Teague Funeral Home, Ivy Road, Charlottesville, VA. Dr. Greg Robbins and Pastor Alvin Horton will officiate at a memorial service on Monday, April 18, 2016 at 2:00 pm at the First United Methodist Church, 102 E. Jefferson Street, Charlottesville, Va.