Glenn Robinson Jr.

Glenn A. Robinson Jr. was born in Painesville, Ohio, to Glenn and Maydean Robinson on February 25, 1932. As the eldest of three boys born to this union, Glenn’s younger brothers, Thomas and Richard, looked up to him as a big brother and a strong figure in their lives.

Glenn graduated from Harvey High School and entered the United States Air Force in March of 1948. He served as a Sergeant and was honorably discharged in April of 1952. During his assignment, he traveled the world, landing in Asia, China, the Philippines, England, and Germany where he met up with his brother Tommy, who was also in the service.
Shortly after returning home, Glenn married the love of his life, Mary Lena Hudson. One of the featured songs performed at their wedding was, ‘I Love You Truly’ by Carrie Jacobs-Bond. This union produced three children: Glenn A. Robinson III, Warren Hudson Robinson, and Robin Mary Robinson (Gorman/Vincent).

Glenn, a Renaissance man, was also known as the town barber in the 1960s. His barber shop became a place where he got to know virtually everyone in Painesville.
He also enjoyed driving his young family to Ontario, Canada to fish for Northern Pike and Muskellunge. Along the way they would stop to feed deer, and in the evenings, Mary Lena would cook their catch around the campfire. As an avid fisherman, his love for the sport was passed along to his children and with fishing poles and tackle boxes in hand, the tradition continued with his grands and great-grandchildren.

At times he and his buddy, Richard Lilly (deceased), would venture out to Lake Erie in his cabin cruiser to fish for Yellow Perch and Walleye. Sometimes followed by delectable BBQ’s at the home of his beloved Mother, Maydean.

Glenn went on to become a foreman at both Morton Salt and Pillsbury in Fairport Harbor. While there, he led a project to teach a team from China on how to operate in the plant more effectively. His new friend, Nishikawa returned to China and later wrote to him, “Your letter finally reach me though” which continues to be an inside joke to this day. (He also taught them to fish).

In 1969 Glenn, wanted more for his wife and children. So, he opened his State Farm agency in Shaker Heights, Ohio, from scratch. Glenn was one of the first African American agents to be hired by the company. With his hard work and dedication, he qualified numerous times for awards and the “Millionaires Club” trips, allowing him to travel across the U.S. and the world, including Paris, France.

Although Glenn was modest and meek in character, his generosity flowed overwhelmingly to his loved ones, who often enjoyed the fruits of his labor. As an avid reader, he was able to pass along a wealth of knowledge on any topic at hand. He was a true Patriarch who always took time to painstakingly give words of advice, encouragement and wisdom to help his loved ones cope with life in general. His comforting words and constant support helped to make life less tragic. He adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren and was always amused by their various antics and loved to watch them play sports.

In his later years, he continued to travel and enjoy life. Every Spring, you could find him at the Cleveland Indians training camp in Florida along with his trusty companion, Val, who remained by his side until the very end…

As a great man, his legacy of love, humor, and dedication to family will never die, but will continue thrive for generations to come.

Glenn is preceded in death by his parents: Glenn Robinson Sr. and Maydean Lilly his wife: Mary Lena Robinson; brother: Richard Robinson Sr., and grandson: Byron Vincent Gorman.
Glenn leaves behind a legacy cherished by his three children: Glenn Robinson III, Warren Robinson, and Robin Gorman (Vincent); Brother: Thomas Robinson. His impact extends to nine grandchildren: Reginald Parks (Lyndsey), Brad Gorman, Damen Robinson, Crystal Donald (Kente), Loren Walker (Billy), Tiffany Robinson, Stacey Robinson, Hannah Robinson, and Glenn Robinson IV; twelve great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.