James Junior Robinson

Reverend James Junior Robinson was born in Laurens County, South Carolina on November 11, 1934 to the late Rosa Lee Young.

He attended Reederville and Bush River Schools in Newberry County, South Carolina. At an early age, he joined Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Joanna, South Carolina. 

"JJ", as he was lovingly called by those who knew and loved him, he later became certified in Floor Covering and Counter Tops from Armstrong Flooring School as well as a Certified Driving Instructor.

Not only did he love the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with all his heart, he had great love for his family and friends, and also fishing. He wore many hats and offered his dedicated services throughout his lifetime not only during the time he was pastoring at various churches, but throughout the state of South Carolina as well.

Mr. Robinson was a member of the National Community Action Foundation in Washington, D.C., South Carolina State Human Affairs Commission Community Relations in 1975, Job Corp Volunteer Honor Roll from 1983 through 1989, and the Former President of Abbeville NAACP from 1986 through 1995. He received the NAACP State Branch James M. Hilton Award for the most Increased Membership in 1987, Abbeville County Branch NAACP Appreciation Award for Leadership Guidance in 1990, NAACP Humanitarian Award in 1992, Operation Impact Award for Ministerial Impact in the Community in 1995, Abbeville County Democratic Dedication loyal Service Award in 1996, Alpha Kappa Alpha Community Service Award in 1996,Gleams Child Development Transportation Service and Positive Work Attitude Award in 1996, and the Outstanding and Dedication Service Award to the Citizens of Abbeville.

Mr. Robinson was a Graduate Official for South Carolina Municipal Association in 1993 and also served as a member of the Abbeville City Council and was the first black man to serve as the Mayor Pro tem in 1999 where he accomplished the passing of the national holiday, Martin Luther King Jr Day, in the city.

Reverend Robinson pastored Walnut Grove, Troy Bethel, Tranquil, Cypress Chapel, Kings Chapel, and Mount Olive A.M.E. Churches, as well as Pine Grove A.M.E. Church in Hodges, South Carolina. Under his leadership, Long Cane, Rocky River, Pine Grove, and Plum Branch churches became station churches. Before his untimely death, he pastored Bethel Grove A.M.E. Church in Gray Court, South Carolina.

He was the first black DJ (WABV) responsible for changing the programing to include black gospel music and initiated the training and hiring of other black individuals.

In addition to his mother, JJ was preceded in death by one daughter, Janice Robinson; two sons: Thomas Robinson and Charlie Robinson; two grandchildren: Shauntay Robinson and Shay Hill; one great grandchild, Journee Robinson; one brother, John Henry Robinson; and four sisters: Emma Lee Robinson, Marie Reeder, Mary Scott, and Azaleen Robinson.

 Reverend James Junior "JJ" Robinson entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at Self Regional Healthcare in Greenwood, South Carolina at the age of eighty-seven. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He leaves to cherish two sons: Gilbert (Vivian) Robinson and James Henry Robinson; eight grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Junior Robinson, please visit our floral store.