Donald Reese Robinson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Donald Reese Robinson, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many with his kindness, love, and unwavering devotion. At the age of 89, he bid farewell to this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion and faith that will forever be cherished.

Born on August 23rd, 1934, Don Robinson embarked on a journey that would define him as a faithful son, steadfast brother, loving husband, cherished father, doting grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a dedicated family man with great prudence and he was a pillar of strength within his community. Don exemplified a spirit of selflessness and nurtured a deep sense of care and responsibility towards his cherished ones.

Don’s warmth, guidance, and unconditional love created a home filled with laughter, understanding and enduring bonds. He committed his life to ensuring the joy and well-being of those around him.

Don’s family was his greatest joy and the center of his world. He showered his wife, children, grandchildren and great grand children with boundless affection, unwavering support, and sage guidance. He was a constant source of encouragement, mindful to embrace life's challenges with grace and tenacity.

Don created a nurturing home filled with laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging, forever providing a safe harbor for his family to thrive.

A man of deep faith, Don’s commitment to God was evident in the way he lived, treating others with respect, kindness, and humility. He found solace in prayer and instilled in his family the values of love for our neighbors, forgiveness and gratitude.

A true advocate for the less fortunate, Don had a heart that reached out to the poor and disadvantaged. His philanthropic efforts, both visible and discreet, touched the lives of many. From Uruguay to Malawi, his volunteer work, charitable contributions, or simply lending a helping hand, he made a lasting impact on his community and the world.

Amongst the many hats that he wore over eight decades, Don served in the U.S. Reserves, was a long standing deacon, a Sunday School teacher, a basketball coach and a member of Bellevue Church where he and Virginia served for over six decades.

Trained as an architect, Don finished his career as a contractor. He was a true “renovator” with a passion for building and restoring homes to make greater memories of those who would occupy them.

Of all his passions, most prominent was his love of sports. Don was lifelong Memphis Tigers fan, an ardent Yankees devotee and an Oakland Raiders fan (until the move to Vegas).

Don was an avid runner, having participated in several marathons. He even started his own running store, called Phidippides. He loved travel, and visited five continents during his life. He was an enthusiastic explorer and collector of antique bottles and pottery. He would eventually become a resident “expert” on rare bottles.

Beyond his immediate circle, Don extended his kindheartedness to the wider community. He possessed an innate ability to empathize with others, offering a listening ear, a comforting smile, and an open heart to those in need. He exuded a genuine compassion that left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

Don is survived by his beautiful wife of 65 years, Virginia, his brother, Mickey, his children, David, Sean, Chris and Karen, his grandchildren Tyler, Bennett, Victoria, Meredith, Karenna, Roshan, Avisha, Sheena, Graham and Ben. As well as his great grandchildren Isaac, Ezra, Eliana, Adley, Callan, and Margot.

While we grieve his loss, we also celebrate the beautiful life he lived amongst the countless people he touched.

Rest in peace, dear Don. We honor and cherish you.

Your love and legacy will forever be etched in our hearts.❤️

“Don was passionate about helping those in need. In his honor please consider a donation to Malawi Children’s Mission, a charity founded by his son, Sean and his wife, Kiran. You can donate online at: https://donate.malawichildrensmission.org/ or by check sent to:

Malawi Children’s Mission

Box 313, 274 Redwood Shores Pkwy

Redwood City, CA 94065

Or a gift to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html.

Please consider these donations in lieu of flowers.

A visitation for Donald will be held Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133, followed by a celebration of life from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.