James N. Robbins

James N. Robbins passed away October 28, 2020.  He was born February 28, 1944 in Ft. Gibson, Oklahoma, the only child of the late James and Florene Robbins.  James, affectionately known as Jim, graduated with honors receiving a Bachelor’s Degree from Langston University where he pledged Omega Psi Phi, Inc.  Upon graduation, he enlisted into the Army Signal Corps as a First Lieutenant serving a single tour in Vietnam.  Jim had a flourishing  career as a Manager at Continental Federal Savings and Loan, was a Representative for Senator Henry Bellmon, and ended his career as a Unit Operations Leader for the City of Oklahoma City.  In the midst of his corporate careers, he left to become an entrepreneur owning a food truck, where he was known as “The Hot Dog Man.”

Jim married his first wife, Ozella Hamilton in June of 1971.  To this union there were three children, Kim, Tina, and James.  The home of Jim and Ozella was filled with family, friends, and fun.

Jim never met a stranger.  Although he was an only child, Jim had many adopted brothers, sisters, children and grandchildren.  He won most over because of his great smile, genuine personality and all stayed because of his excellent cooking.  Jim was an avid fisherman, hunter, cook, and he would say he was a “creative genius.” 

Jim later married Ingrid Robbins on March 21, 1988, no children were born to this union.

Succeeding Jim in death were his parents, James and Florene Robbins.  Left to mourn his memory are his children, Kim Robbins-Tennyson, Tina Vann, and James Robbins (Kimberly); grandchildren, Justin Smalley (Carla), Andrew Tennyson, Zakary Vann,  Kenaisha Jones, James Vann, Jada Robbins, Sarah Robbins, James Robbins, and Eain Tennyson; great grandchildren, Tristin Smalley, Zamora Vann, Cameron Smalley, Hezekiah Nelson, and Beckham Smalley; three step daughters, Jann Smalley, Sheila Smalley and Ellen Hall; one step son, Dean Smalley; and a host of cousins, friends and extended family.

Jim’s infectious smile, fatherly wisdom, loving spirit, deep friendship, and scholarly guidance, will sincerely be missed.