James Robinson Obituary

James Kenneth "Ken" Robinson, age 82, of Marion, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Ken was born on June 12, 1943, in York, South Carolina, to the late Fronie White and Robert Kell Robinson. He graduated from York High School in 1961.
Following high school, Ken proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He remained connected to fellow veterans and continued his service to others as a member of the Fairfield County American Legion Post 16.
Ken began his professional career with Southern Engineering in Atlanta, Georgia, before returning to South Carolina to join Pee Dee Electric Cooperative in Marion. Through years of dedicated service, he rose to the position of Vice President and remained with the company until his retirement at the age of 57.
In 1970, Ken married Phyllis Sarvis Robinson, and together they built a life in Marion rooted in love, commitment, and family. In their later years, as Phyllis's health declined, Ken cared for her with extraordinary tenderness, patience, and devotion, an enduring example of unconditional love.
Ken had a deep love for the people of Marion County. He was actively involved in his community and was known for his passion for unity and understanding. He founded the Race Relations Forum, bringing people together across differences to promote healing, dialogue, and connection. His commitment to service, equity, and compassion reflected the values he lived by each day.
He is survived by his two children, Kell Robinson of Blythewood, South Carolina, and Keplyn Page Robinson (Johanna Mabry) of Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to six grandchildren: Meighan Quinn (Matt) of Clio, South Carolina; Zachery Robinson of Clio, South Carolina; Kera Robinson (Jayson) of Carthage, North Carolina; Ari Mabry of Boston, Massachusetts; Hunter Mabry and Eliana Mabry of Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Ken is also survived by his sister, Jane Wray of Clover, South Carolina, and his brother, Bob Robinson (JoAnn) of Etowah, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Phyllis S. Robinson, and his sister, Betty Robinson Montgomery of York, South Carolina.
Ken will be remembered for his deep kindness, steady presence, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the relationships he nurtured, and the love he gave so freely.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or an organization supporting dementia care and research
To send a flower arrangement in memory of
James "Ken" Kenneth Robinson, please click here to visit our sympathy store.