Hugh Robins Jr.

Known as an athlete and a fund raiser, but ultimately a loving and devoted family member, Hugh “Perk” Robins entered heaven on September 1, 2016 after an extended illness. Born May 5, 1930, a native of Louisville KY, Perk was an outstanding two sport athlete and was named to the KY All-Star basketball team. At Wittenberg University in Ohio, Perk excelled in both baseball and basketball, being elected to the Athletic Hall of Fame at Male High School and Wittenberg University. However, the highlight of his collegiate experience was meeting his future wife to whom he was married for 60 years: Mary Lou Rutz of Detroit, MI.

After graduation, Perk served in the U.S. Army where he was named to the All-Army basketball team. He played one year of professional baseball in the Cincinnati Reds organization. When an injury ended his professional athletic career, he returned to his alma mater and began a career in alumni relations and development at Wittenberg. In 1967 Perk became the Director of Development at Ball State University in Muncie Indiana. In 1973, Perk moved his family to Athens, GA where he became the first Vice President for Development and University Relations at the University of Georgia. Creating a culture of engagement and philanthropy that has provided a foundation for the University’s fund raising successes today the programs he implemented won national awards for their success.

In 2011, Perk received the “Friend of UGA” award from the UGA Alumni Association which recognizes a non-graduate whose professional service has greatly assisted the University of Georgia.

In 1988 Perk moved to Statesboro to lead Georgia Southern University’s development efforts. At GSU he built an award winning division that achieved an unparalleled increase in private support during his tenure. Upon retirement in 1996, Perk and Mary Lou remained in Statesboro where they were active in Statesboro First United Methodist Church and civic activities. They spent their summer months with family at Houghton Lake, Michigan.

Perk was recognized in 2006 with the Dean Day Smith Service to Mankind award. He was also recognized as Red Cross Volunteer of the Year. He enjoyed his Bulloch County community, especially the lifelong friends made at RJ’s Coffee Club, who will serve as honorary pallbearers at his memorial service.

Perk is preceded in death by wife, Mary Lou Robins and his parents, Hugh and Lillian Robins. He is survived by three children who always felt his unconditional love: Rick Robins of Birmingham, AL; Becky Galvin (Marc) of Watkinsville, GA and Patty Dailey (Tom) of Greensboro, GA. He was extremely proud of and involved in the lives of his 8 grandchildren. He adored his two great grandchildren and was excited to have another one on the way.

A man who lived his life through faith and steadfast loyalty, a memorial service celebrating Perk’s life will be held at Statesboro First United Methodist Church on Sunday, September 11, 2016 at 3 pm. Interment will be held privately at a later date at Oconee Hill Cemetery in Athens, GA.

Please visit our online memorial at www.hodgesmoore.com to sign the guest book and share fond memories with the Robins family.

In lieu of flowers gifts may be made to the Statesboro First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir or the charity of your choice.

Hodges-Moore Funeral Home is in charge of funeral arrangements.