Joe E. Robinson

Joseph Edward Robinson, 90, of Bolivar, TN, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, September 26.

Joe was born on July 5, 1935, to Stephen Douglas (S.D.) Robinson and Annie Crews Overton Robinson.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who built a legacy of love, hard work, and generosity. He is survived by his loving wife RoseMary Robinson; children Steve Robinson (Amy) of Bolivar and Tim Robinson (Theresa) of Mannford, OK; his sister, Peggy Smith (Bill) of Collierville, TN; and grandchildren: Joseph Emerson (Alise) of Oxford, MS, Andrew Thompson of New York, Emma Grace Robinson of Oxford, MS, Garrett Dean of Mannford, OK, Catelin Green- Sanfilippo (Kyle) and Alison Green (Jacob) of Portland, OR. Joe was blessed with great-grandchildren David, Will, Emmy, and Effie. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Susan Emerson Thompson (Brian), and brothers Fred Robinson, Joseph William Robinson, and Benny Franklin Robinson.

An entrepreneur at heart, Joe owned and operated many local businesses over the years to include The Pigpen, The Aristocrat, Joe’s (on the Square), Dossie’s and most recently Route 64 Grill. Throughout the decades spent in the restaurant business, Joe never met a stranger. He had a special place in his heart for both kids and dogs. Whether a child was a customer in the drive-thru or a dog was waiting in the back of a truck, he never failed to offer a treat — rarely pausing to ask permission first!

Joe had a big heart, loved his family deeply, and always made time for them. Not a day went by without him telling his wife “I love you” several times a day. His love for RoseMary was evident as he always wanted her by his side. and he and his family cherished every moment spent together. Whether it was Joe’s barbecue & ribs or a fish fry held for family and friends, Joe’s food had a way of bringing people together and guaranteed a good time. Earlier in life, he enjoyed card games, trips to horse races in Hot Springs, NASCAR races, and occasional adventures to Atlantic City or Tunica.

Always willing to help others in need, Joe will forever be remembered for his generosity, strong work ethic, devotion to his family and of course his ever present cigar.

He was truly a great man who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.  Memorial donations in his name may be sent to the charity of the donor's choice.