The Life and Legacy of Julia Mae Thompson Robinson Affectionately Called "Julie T." On a warm Wednesday morning, August 30th, 1939, in the close-knit community of Ridgeville, South Carolina, God sent a precious gift to James and Elizabeth Fludd Thompson—a baby girl they named Julia Mae. From the moment she entered the world, Julia's presence brought light and laughter. She was joyful, witty, and full of life. Her energy seemed boundless, her smile unforgettable, and her walk—oh, her walk—was so unique that it could be recognized from miles away, with a signature sway that became one of her most endearing features. Raised in a God-fearing home, Julia's spiritual journey began early. As a young girl, she joined Canaan United Methodist Church, where she found her spiritual footing. Whether singing in the choir or attending Sunday School, she embraced faith wholeheartedly. In time, she received Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior—a moment that brought her family great peace. Her commitment to her faith was not just spoken, but lived daily. Mornings often began with her on her knees—either at her bedside or on a bathroom bench—deep in prayer, Bible open, seeking wisdom and strength from her Creator. In the early 1990s, she returned to Canaan UMC and, true to form, jumped right into service. Julie T. wasn't one to sit still. She led the Summer Enrichment and Feeding Program, served as a Church Board Member, sang in the choir, presided over the United Methodist Women, acted as Secretary of the Boy Scouts, and poured herself into the lives of all who crossed her path.

Love, Family, and Community Love found Julia in the form of Elijah Lowell Robinson, Sr, whom she married on December 6, 1958. God blessed them with five beautiful children, and Julie T. devoted herself to nurturing each one with tenderness and wisdom. She later joined her husband's church, St. John A.M.E. of Cottageville, where she continued her pattern of deep service—teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, working with youth, engaging in the women's ministry, and always stepping in where there was a need. But her compassion reached far beyond the walls of the church. She was a quiet pillar in her community, especially to the elderly, whom she visited and cared for with great gentleness. Julie T. was also a founding member of the NAACP Chapter in Ridgeville, SC, and proudly served as an election poll worker, believing in the power of community and civic duty. A Woman of Many Talents Education was a cornerstone of Julia's early life. She began her studies at Canaan Elementary School and later graduated from Alston High School, where she was a dazzling majorette in the marching band, twirling her baton with grace and pride. Her education continued at South Carolina State College, where she earned certifications in Administration and Direct Support Professional work. God blessed her with hands that could create and a heart that could serve. Julie T. was an exceptional seamstress, a Master Chef, and a woman full of wisdom and resourcefulness. These gifts led her to touch many lives through her work—at Head Start, various restaurants, the Naval Base, and the Coastal Center. Legacy of Love Julie T. will always be remembered for her gentle smile, wise words, and her unmistakable swaying walk. She taught not only through instruction but by example—leaving behind a legacy built on faith, family, and service. The traditions she started, the love she gave, and the wisdom she shared continue to live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. She now joins in eternal rest with her beloved husband, Elijah Lowell Robinson Sr., her parents James and Elizabeth Thompson, her siblings Beverly (the late Willie) Hopkins, Elmer (the late Flora Mae) Thompson, and Mary (Billy) King, Edward (Arlene) Thompson, her infant grandson Isaiah Robinson, and great-grandson Noah Alexander Robinson. Julia Mae leaves behind a legacy that will never fade. To cherish her memory, she leaves her five loving children: Elijah (Dorothy) Robinson Jr. Patricia (Rev. Joe) Wade Thomas (Shawn) Robinson Kevin (May) Robinson Sr. Dwayne (La'Toshia) Robinson She is also survived by her beloved 22 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, her sister Mrs. Inez Thompson Rush, sister-in-law Mrs. Janie Robinson, brothers-in-law Mr. Billy King and Rev. Evon (Gloria) Robinson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends. Though she has departed this world, her spirit remains, gently guiding us through every memory, every tradition, and every act of love we continue in her name. Rest well, Mom/Grandma You are deeply missed, forever cherished, and eternally remembered.