Patricia Carleen Robinson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patricia Carleen Robinson (Whaling), of Phoenix, Arizona, beloved wife, sister, mother, and grandmother. Patricia passed away unexpectedly, on March 6, 2025, at the age of 89.

Born on June 13, 1935, in Harrisburg to Carl DeWalt and Eleanor Whaling. Raised in central Pennsylvania, Pat, her mother and stepfather (John Baney), moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1946. She attended Mesa High School graduating in the top 5 of her class every year. She loved acting in school plays, performing in concerts and marching band. Pat studied Psychology and music at Arizona State University. Her passion for music was noteworthy playing several instruments during her studies and her love for music remained a constant throughout her life. Pat particularly enjoyed teaching piano and bringing joy to those around her living a life marked by kindness, generosity, and selflessness. Pat’s greatest joy was putting others before herself as a volunteer aide for five years to the severely handicapped children of an elementary school in Glendale, AZ where she bonded and fused personal relationships with her students and parents.

Faith played a large part in Pat’s life. She was the president of the Youth Fellowship Group at the local Presbyterian Church in Mesa, AZ where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and filled in for the organist. She regularly attended church and volunteered her services throughout her life.

Pat married Joe C. Robinson of Vilas, North Carolina, on March 16, 1957, devoting nearly 68 years to her husband and being a loving mother to her four children. She cherished time spent with her family and was a source of kindness, warmth, and wisdom to all who knew her. She enjoyed quilting, sewing and mentoring. It was a family value that our home would always be a “happy place” where our kids could bring their friends. The kids came and they still do!! Many of her children’s friends considered, and called her “Mom”. Her SMILE could brighten any room, and her heart was always open to others, making her one of the kindest, most selfless people to ever walk this earth.

Patricia is survived by her husband Joe Robinson; her children Stephen (Darlene) Robinson, Stacy (Jeff) Ehlers, John (Monica) Robinson, and Sandy (Jim) Throop; 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; sister, Vicki Baney. Following her 30 years as an Air Force wife, she accompanied her husband to Saudia Arabia for a 2-year position as an instructor which lasted 10 yrs. While there she served as President of an 800 member “International Wife’s Club” group (IWG), published 2 books, and traveled extensively in Europe, Africa, and Asia with her family and IWG members.

Patricia's impact on the world around her was immeasurable. She will be dearly missed by her husband, children, extended family, and friends. The love she shared will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.

Pat’s loving husband, Joe, epitaphed: “She left her mark on me and many others… Well done My Pat, My Love, and best friend… Your Robbie!!”

Rest in peace, Patricia Carleen Robinson.

A celebration of Pat's life will be held at a later date.