Shirley H. Robinson, born on October 27, 1934, in Riverside, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 91.
Shirley was a woman of deep faith and dedication, whose life was marked by her service to others and her love for family and animals. In her early years, she worked as a secretary in several churches, where she touched many lives with her kindness and diligence.
Her academic journey led her to Pfeiffer College in Misenheimer, North Carolina, where she earned her undergraduate degree. She furthered her education with a Master’s degree in Theology from Boston University in Massachusetts. It was there that she met her former husband, Frank. Together, they moved to Florida, where Shirley would spend over fifty years, building a life filled with passion, independence and adventure. Shirley was also well travelled and was forward-thinking in her support of social rights and equality issues.
An avid horse enthusiast, Shirley was deeply involved in the equestrian community. She showed Quarter horses and was a familiar face at horse shows, not just as a participant but also as a dedicated supporter. Her small farm was her sanctuary, where she lovingly cared for her horses and cherished her Australian shepherds.
Preceded in death by her beloved parents, Avery and Felester Huddleston, and her older brother, Alfred Huddleston, Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Pinson, and her husband, James; her son, Kirk Robinson, and his wife, Melissa Chapel. Her family was her pride and joy, and she held them close to her heart throughout her life.
In honor of Shirley’s wishes, a private family gathering will be held in Florida to celebrate her life and bid farewell to a remarkable woman who was loved by all who knew her.
She will be remembered as brave, determined and resilient, and for her enduring love of her family and her beloved animals. Please consider making a donation in her memory to Paws Warriors, a cat rescue near her farm in Brooksville, FL, where felines are given the highest quality care while they wait to be adopted into loving forever homes.
Shirley H. Robinson’s legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched throughout her life.
