Hubert Ray Robinson, 87, formerly of North Syracuse, New York, was born October 29, 1932, in Battle Creek, Michigan to the late Walter and Josephine Smith Robinson. He died peacefully in his sleep of natural causes at the home of his youngest son in Mansfield, Texas. Following graduation from Battle Creek High School, Hubert enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951. He served 20 years as an administrative supervisor, retiring in 1971 as Tech Sergeant. His military duties took him throughout Europe, and to Japan, Korea, and Viet Nam. He received several commendations and medals for meritorious service. Hubert's second career in procurement at the Inland Fisher Guide Division of General Motors Corporation in Syracuse, New York spanned 19 years. He retired a second time in 1991. Hubert attended Onondaga Community College and received an Associate of Applied Arts degree in Occupational Studies and Business Administration Management from Central City Business Institute. Hubert served as a former Trustee and was a member of People's AME Zion Church of Syracuse, New York for more than 60 years, Past President of the Syracuse Celebrators' Club, a volunteer with the North Syracuse Area Meals On Wheels, a member of the Minority Alumni Association of the Air National Guard 174th Fighter Wing, and a member of the American Legion Dunbar Post 1642. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 55 years, Earsie Lee Scott Robinson. His memory is cherished by two daughters, Victoria Elaine (Kenneth O) Edmonds, of Baltimore, Maryland, Jacqueline Yolanda (Henry H Melchor) Robinson-Melchor of Manlius, New York; three sons, Mandel Ray (Marcia (deceased)) Robinson of Brewerton, New York, Eric Eugene (Jeanette) Robinson of Pearland, Texas, and Hubert Ray (Patricia) Robinson, Jr. of Mansfield, Texas; eleven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings include two sisters, Edith Pulley of Battle Creek, Michigan, and Shirley Holloway of San Antonio, Texas. He was preceded in death by brothers Edward Robinson, William Robinson, Howard Robinson, and sisters Josephine Robinson, Betty Reynolds, Lurene Robinson, and Juanita Robinson. Hubert will be remembered by all who knew him as a loving and devoted husband and brother, a friendly and reliable neighbor, and a proud father and grandfather. He maintained a positive outlook, and delighted in greeting friends and acquaintances with an uplifting remark or comment. He offered sincere advice to young and old, whether solicited or unsolicited, but he always acknowledged and considered opinions contrary to his own. He loved to bowl, play cards and bingo, and dance the electric slide at Celebrator events. He will be missed by many. Funeral service and burial will be private at Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Syracuse, New York, on Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be made to The Earsie Robinson Scholarship Fund, 8267 Glen Eagle Drive, Manlius, N.Y. 13104.

Published in Syracuse Post Standard from May 22 to May 24, 2020.