Lawrence Edward Robinson Jr.

Lawrence Edward Robinson, Jr., affectionately known as “Larry,” and lovingly called “Juno” or “LJ” by his family, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 30, 2025, after complications from cancer. He was 68 years old.

Larry was born on November 7, 1956, at Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia, to Vennie Lee Thomas and Lawrence Edward Robinson, Sr. He was baptized at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church in Sacramento, where his family laid the foundation of faith that guided him throughout his life. From the beginning, family was at the center of his world—especially his mother, who remained his greatest love, joy, and anchor. Anyone who knew Larry knew how deeply he adored her. She was, in his own words, “the one—you only get one.”

He grew up in Sacramento, where he played football at C.K. McClatchy High School and graduated with the class of 1974. A lifelong sports fan, Larry’s teams kept him both cheering and groaning: the Yankees, the 49ers, the Sacramento Kings, and the San Francisco Giants. His love of baseball extended far beyond the living room—he made it a personal mission to visit every Major League Baseball stadium, often traveling by train just to enjoy the journey.

Larry dedicated his professional life to public service, building a long and meaningful career with the State of California before retiring in 2023 from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. His colleagues knew him as steady, dependable, and deeply committed to his work.

Outside of work, Larry found joy in life’s simple pleasures—barbecuing with family, playing dominoes, scratching his lottery tickets, and talking sports. He had a quiet sense of humor and a steady presence—the kind of man who showed his love through showing up.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Edward Robinson, Sr.; his brother, Raymond Lee Robinson, Sr.; his grandparents, Ples Robinson, Sr. and Mildred Robinson, and Dave Thomas and Blanchie Mae Thomas; his uncle, Curtis Lamb, Sr.; his cousins, Curtis Lamb, Jr. and Melvin Lamb; and his best friend, Howard Brown, lovingly known as HB.

He is survived by his beloved mother, Vennie Lee Robinson; his brothers, David Lenord Robinson and Michael Darnel Robinson; and his sister, Janet Denise Gibson, and her husband, Charles Gerome Gibson. He was a proud uncle to Amber Janel Gibson-Mora, her husband Albert, and their children Giordan, Giulian, Giovi, and Gianca; to Raymond Robinson, Jr. (Robbie) and his wife Caitlyn, and their daughters Cori and Sienna; and to Morgan Robinson (Mickey).

Larry is also survived by his aunts, Era Mae Lamb and Joanne Thomas (Terrence and Tracy); his uncles, Jonyee Robinson and his wife Toi, and Ples Robinson, Jr.; and his dear cousin, Barbara Lamb, with whom he shared a lifelong closeness filled with laughter, loyalty, and love. Their bond was a source of constant joy and comfort throughout his life. He also leaves behind a host of relatives and lifelong friends, too numerous to name, each holding a special place in his heart.

A special thanks is extended to his dear friends LaMardio and Steve, and his “little brother” Eddy Castro, whose unwavering love and support meant the world to him and his family.

For Larry, nothing compared to time with family. Whether gathered for a barbecue, playing dominoes, or simply sitting with his mom, those were the moments he cherished most. His life was defined not just by the years he lived, but by the loyalty, devotion, and love he carried for his family.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Larry’s life—where stories will be shared, sports will surely be mentioned, and his favorite saying, “You only get one,” will be remembered as both his wisdom and his legacy.