James Leroy Robbins

Major James Robbins, 80, of Little Rock, Arkansas was promoted to glory on April 23rd, 2022 surrounded by family and friends.

James was born in Springfield, Illinois on June 2, 1941 to John and Minnie Robbins. Growing up, he was extremely close with his brothers and would do anything for their happiness. During his sophomore year of high school, his life started to chart its course for the future when his brother died from cancer. Out of love for his family, especially his mother, he began the journey of living a life spent fulfilling the hopes and dreams of his older brother, eventually leading him to the Chicago Staff Band as a B-flat Bass player and finally entering The Salvation Army’s School for Officers Training in Chicago, Illinois as a member of the Servants of Christ Session. It was there during his time as a cadet that he met and fell in love with staff officer, Lt. Patricia Smith. They were married upon his commission in June of 1964 and served faithfully together within various appointments throughout the Central and Southern Territories.

In 1992, at the retirement of his brother-in-law, Lt. Colonel Arthur Smith, the Holy Spirit brought him to a new and complete satisfying peace and fresh fire for ministry. For those who knew James, you knew that he LOVED BIG! He loved his wife greater than a love every known. He loved his children and would give anything for them! His love for his grandchildren is what kept him going the last 4 years! He loved everyone who came across his journey and desired to be walking testimony of the unconditional LOVE that God has for all of us.

James is proceeded in death by his father, John D Robbins, his mother, Minnie V Robbins, his brothers, John and Robert Robbins, and the love of his life, Patricia Robbins. He is survived by his children: John (Michelle) Robbins of Mountain Home, AR, James (Celeste) Robbins of Wichita, KS, Joy Robbins of Decatur, GA , Jan (Frankie) Zuniga of Orange, TX , and Jeff (Emily) Robbins of Little Rock, AR. James’ most precious gifts were his 16 grandchildren and two great grandchildren, who gave him the greatest joys and memory making experiences over the last four years.