Pastor John M Robbins Sr.

John Robbins was born in Greensburg, PA on December 3rd, 1937. The last of seven children, as his mother passed away shortly after his birth. Soon after the family moved to Takoma Park, MD where he grew up in a family whose business was construction. These experiences would play a major part in his life and eventual ministry.

Pastor John worked in the ministry for forty eight years. A journey to the ministry began in Takoma Park, MD, while working as a building contractor, he attended a series of It Is Written meetings at the DC National Guard Armory. After those meetings, he felt that God had called him to study for the gospel and moved to Tennessee to study at Southern Adventist University. He received a BA in Theology in 1963 and received his Ministerial License from the Georgia Cumberland Conference that same year. Further graduate studies in the Seminary at Andrews University were obtained resulting in obtaining his Fifth year certificate in 1964. He was Ordained in 1968.

Throughout his long and storied career as a minister, he has pastored in five states, held over 40 Soul winning Seminars and Evangalistic meetings in both the USA and Canada resulting in over 500 baptisms. Mission trips to Jamaica also resulted in over 100 baptisms. He also wrote the book, You Can win Souls. A simple and effective way for others to learn from his experiences.

His significant talents as a builder and architect resulted in the building of six churches. These are located in Newport and Morristown, TN, Lancaster and York, PA, Woodbridge and Lynchburg, VA. He also rebuilt and renovated the Griffen Church in GA. Built an addition to the Hanover Church in PA. Played a significant role ($2..5 million project) in rebuilding Camp Blue Ridge in Va. As a tireless fund raiser he raised millions of dollars for these projects ($600,000 for Lynchburg alone). Using his significant talents as a general contractor, he also oversaw and ran all of the above projects, which saved millions of dollars through the years for those churches and conferences. Due to his success, he also gave many consultations and guidance to other churches and projects in their building programs and projects.

Pastor Johns life revolved around the church and his family, which where integral to his success and joy. He met the love of his life, Mary, in High school. They married young, she was 17 and he 18, on July 19, 1956. A bond that lasted for 59 years, when Mary passed on January 27, 2015. The two were inseparable and loved each other with adoration and joy. They had three children. Linda, Sandra and John Jr. Linda married Paul Edwards. Sandra married Tim Greenleaf(deceased) and bore three kids. Christopher, Justin and Amanda. All have children, Christopher with Nikki who have David and Joi. Justin with Elizabeth who have Lucas and Katelynn. Amanda with Stephen Williams who have Liliana and Sophia. The happiness and contentment were the best when being with and around his family.

Laughing, story telling, socializing, caring for others and eating was infectious with Pastor John. A naturally upbeat person lifted many people up and as a natural leader he influenced many on their road to Christ and betterment.

A life well lived and served in his lifelong ministry to others. He continues to impact those who he touched both directly and indirectly. We loved you as a Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Friend, Mentor, Pastor and Man. You will forever be in our hearts and mind.

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

And the rains fall soft upon your fields,

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Irish Blessing

The funeral service livestream can be found following this link -

https://www.youtube.com/c/FredericksburgSDAChurch

In lieu of flowers a Memorial Fund for John and Mary Robert has been set up for donations to be made - https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANBMEG/envelope/start

People can also mail their donations (Earmarked - John and Mary Robbins Memorial Fund) to: 6052 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407