Janie Mae Robinson's Obituary
Janie Mae Robinson was born on May 4, 1943, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late William Thomas Robinson and Maxie Wooten Robinson Connor. She was the eighth of nine children born to a loving and devoted family. From birth, Janie worshiped alongside her parents and family at Thankful Missionary Baptist Church. In 1980, she followed her mother and her brother, Rev. Dr. Marshall Robinson, as he founded and pastored Grace Baptist Tabernacle, where she remained a faithful member until her health declined. Janie briefly attended Chattanooga Avenue Elementary School until she was no longer able to continue due to having exceptional needs. Though her path was different, her life was rich in love, joy, and presence. She had a deep affection for her cherished babydolls and babies, a simple delight in fruit and television, and an unwavering love for her family. She also held a long-standing “position” working alongside her sister Edith, a seamstress, but Janie's job was watching her favorite TV shows. We can only imagine the loving mother or devoted educator Janie might have been. Yet, her life taught us more than any classroom—about grace, patience, and unconditional love. In her quiet yet funny way, she was both a teacher and a gift.
On June 18, 2025, at the age of 82, Janie transitioned from labor to reward at Standifer Place Nursing Home, where she had been a longtime resident. She was preceded in death by her parents, William T. Robinson, Sr., and Maxie Wooten Robinson Connor; her stepfather, Gabe Connor; her brothers: William T. Robinson, Jr., Rev. Zack D. Robinson, and Joseph D. Robinson, Sr.; and her sisters: Mary P. Lawrence, Magnolia Bell, and Myrtle Johnson. She was also preceded in death by her nieces Veronica Robinson and Sandra Weaver, and nephews Thurman Johnson, Joseph D. Robinson, Jr., and Ollie Powell.
Janie leaves to cherish her memory; her devoted sister, Edith Swafford; her beloved brother, Rev. Dr. Marshall Robinson; and her sister-in-law, Mattie Lois Robinson, all of Chattanooga, TN. She is also survived by her nieces: Cynthia Jackson, Maxie (Joe) Benton, Cynthia Renee (Michael) Chapman, Delores Lawrence, Karen Johnson, Janis (Harold) Robinson, and Warnesta Robinson, all of Chattanooga, TN.; Constance Flint of Thomaston, GA.; and Nannette Byrdsong and Tara Mack, both of Rome, GA. She is also remembered by her nephews: Sam Brown, Wesley Lawrence, Will Bell, Jr., William (Cathy) Robinson III, Jeffery Robinson, Darryl Robinson, Johnny Robinson, all of Chattanooga, TN; and Charles Flint of Rome, GA. In addition, Janie leaves behind 14 great-nieces, 15 great-nephews, a host of great-great nieces and nephews, a host of cousins, and many of her cherished babydolls. Though Janie faced a world that often underestimates those with disabilities, her life was a clear reflection of God’s love and purpose. As Jesus said in John 9:3 "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." Janie Mae’s life was a testament to that truth. She will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Janie will lie-in-state on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Family hour will follow at 11:00 a.m. and the funeral service to follow at 12:00 noon in the chapel with Dr. Jessie Broadnax as the Eulogist. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery.
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