Jessie Mae Robinson, lovingly known as “Mom” and “Mema,” passed peacefully on

January 12, 2026—her birthday—at the age of 91. She was born on January 12, 1935,

in Orangeburg, South Carolina, and moved to Washington, D.C., at the age of six,

where she would build a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

Jessie attended public schools in Washington, D.C., graduating from Cardozo High

School in 1952. After working briefly in private industry, she married the love of her life,

John G. Robinson, Sr., on January 20, 1959. Together they shared 67 years of

marriage and built a home filled with devotion, resilience, and love. Jessie later

dedicated herself to raising their children, remaining at home during their early years.

She was the proud mother of John G. Robinson, Jr., Mark E. Robinson, and Paul C.

Robinson, and the beloved mother of Joan Michelle Robinson, who preceded her in

death in infancy (June 10–December 5, 1963). Jessie was also a devoted grandmother

to Jordan C. Robinson, Jared J. Robinson, and Jacob L. Robinson, affectionately

called “Mema,” a role she cherished deeply.

In 1973, Jessie began a distinguished career in federal service, working initially with the

Department of State and later with agencies including the Department of Labor and the

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. She retired in 1999 after 27 years of faithful

government service, earning respect for her diligence, integrity, and quiet leadership.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Jessie was baptized at an early age and

worshipped at several churches over her lifetime, including St. Stephen’s Baptist

Church, First Rock Baptist Church, and Union Wesley, before becoming a devoted

member of Peoples Congregation United Church of Christ, where she actively

served in ministries including the Food Pantry and the Silverthorns Club.

Jessie loved photography and found joy in capturing moments and sharing memories

with family and friends. She had a heart for people—young and old—and lived by a

simple but powerful motto: “If I could help somebody along the way, then my living was

not in vain.” She often reminded young people that education is the key to knowledge

and success, when paired with prayer, and she lived out her guiding principles of

prayer, patience, focus, and perseverance.

She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family, dear friends,

church family, classmates, and coworkers whose lives she touched with her warmth,

wisdom, and radiant smile.

Funeral services were held on January 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Peoples

Congregation United Church of Christ, 4704 13th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

Interment at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Her life was a testimony. Her love endures. Her living was not in vain.

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