Harriett J. Robinson

Harriett “Nita” Holloway Robinson, a woman whose infectious warmth, generous spirit, and sharp wit brightened every room she entered, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 26, 2026, just six weeks shy of her 98th birthday. Nita leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, generous philanthropist, respected business leader, and cherished friend.

Born on September 10, 1928, in Newnan, Georgia, Nita was the daughter of Mary and Jesse Holloway. She was preceded in death by her beloved siblings, Christine Hoke, Jean Pierce, James T. Holloway, and Skipper Hoke.

On May 24, 1960, she married the love of her life and best friend, J. Mack Robinson. Together they shared 54 remarkable years of marriage until his passing in 2014. While Mack was celebrated as one of Georgia’s most accomplished entrepreneurs, those who knew them well recognized that Nita’s wisdom, unwavering support, and meticulous attention to detail played an essential role in both his success and the remarkable life they built together. A trailblazer in her own right, Nita served on the boards of Delta Life Insurance Company, Atlantic American Corporation, and Gray Media, Inc., earning the respect of colleagues through her sound judgment, integrity, and leadership.

A woman of timeless elegance, Nita possessed a lifelong appreciation for art, fashion, and exceptional design. Following her husband’s early investment in launching Yves Saint Laurent fashion house in 1962, she developed a deep, lifelong friendship with the legendary designer. Nita delighted in wearing many of his earliest creations, showcasing an impeccable style that earned her recognition as one of Atlanta’s Best Dressed Women in the 1970s. Her bond with Yves remained a cherished part of her life until his passing in 2008.

Nita’s greatest passion was giving back. Known for her quiet generosity and gracious hospitality, she believed deeply in strengthening the institutions that enriched the lives of others and in supporting causes that would benefit generations to come. Her philanthropy touched countless lives and helped shape the cultural, educational, and civic landscape of Georgia. She was a dedicated member of the Forward Arts Foundation for many years, established the Nita Robinson Scholars Program at Georgia State University, and together with her husband, was a generous supporter of the J. Mack Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University, the High Museum of Art, Emory University, Oglethorpe University, and The Westminster Schools. In recognition of their extraordinary generosity and commitment to their community, Nita and Mack were honored as Georgia Philanthropists of the Year in 1994. She was a devoted member of Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church for many years.

Above all else, Nita treasured her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Robin Robinson Howell and her husband, Hilton H. Howell, Jr., and Jill Robinson Forsey; and her beloved grandchildren, Hilton III, Alston, Anna, and Julia Howell, and Sara, Laura, William, Elizabeth, and Thomas Forsey.

To those who knew her, Nita will be remembered for her gracious spirit and unwavering kindness. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued, and she leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humility, and love that will continue to inspire all whose lives she touched.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to Nita’s devoted caregivers for their exceptional love, compassion, and faithful care, which allowed her to remain in the comfort of her home throughout her final years. They are especially grateful to Vanessa Boyce and Ramon Zacarias, whose unwavering devotion, kindness, and companionship enriched Nita’s life and brought immeasurable comfort to both her and her family.

The family will gather privately to celebrate and honor Nita’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Forward Arts Foundation 3130 Slaton Drive, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30305 or contact [email protected]