Joe Frank Robbins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grand, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2023, at his home in Nederland, Texas. He was born on July 2, 1946, in Norton, Virginia to Gifford Robbins and Alma (Province) Robbins.
Joe's journey through life was marked by dedication and service. After his honorable discharge from the United States Air Force, where he served four years in Minot, North Dakota. Joe then moved back to Nederland where he began his career at Unocal refinery. He remained committed to his work until the refinery's closure. Not one to be discouraged, Joe later found employment at Nederland ISD and faithfully served the district for ten years until his retirement.
Education played an important role in Joe's life. He grew up in Mississippi and graduated from Natchez-Adams High School and Co-Lin Junior College. It was during his time at Co-Lin that he met the love of his life of 57 years, Tommye Jean Budwah. In 1968, Joe earned a machinist degree at Lamar State College in Beaumont.
Joe's involvement in his community extended beyond his professional pursuits. He was a devoted member of First Methodist Church in Nederland, where he actively participated in various committees dedicated to improving and expanding the church. His selfless service exemplified his commitment to faith and community.
Above all else, Joe was a family man who loved and supported his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild unconditionally. The joy he found within his family brought a smile to his face that could light up any room. Over the years, he also found fulfillment as a Little League and Babe Ruth Coach.
In recent years, Joe faced numerous health challenges with immense strength and courage. Parkinson's disease, dementia, and mini-strokes tested him physically and mentally. Throughout this difficult journey, Harbor Hospice of Beaumont and Nederland provided compassionate care, support, and ministry to Joe's needs with kindness until the end.
Joe will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Tommye Robbins of Nederland, his daughter Michelle Grice-Robbins of Nederland, and his son Cody Joe Robbins and wife Paige. His legacy also lives on through his six grandchildren - Callie, Mackenna, Easton, Reese, Ryder, and Regan - as well as his great-granddaughter, Olivia.
Joe is also survived by his brothers, Fred Robbins and wife Cheryl of Pennsylvania, Jim Robbins and wife Terry of Mississippi, Tom Robbins and wife Eileen of Virginia. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Jody Robbins of Virginia, Joyce Robbins of Virginia, Karen Laird of Mississippi, seventeen nieces and nephews, and many special friends who will cherish the memories they shared with him.
A visitation to honor Joe's life will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at Melancon Levingston in Nederland, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow on Friday, December 15, 2023, at First Methodist Church in Nederland located at 1300 Nederland Avenue. The service will begin at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Kevin Kissel, officiant. Interment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches.
Joe Frank Robbins touched the lives of many with his unwavering kindness and devotion to family and community. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him best. May he rest in eternal peace.