of West Memphis, AR
August 14, 1942 - March 23, 2025
Donald Roy Robbins went to his heavenly home with the Lord on March 23, 2025. He was born on August 14, 1942, to Buddy and Ruby Robbins in Trumann, AR and was a graduate of Trumann high school and a Music major graduate of Arkansas State University.
Don was a band director at West Memphis City Schools for 5 years before going to a sales position serving NAPA for over 20 years. After retiring from NAPA, he returned to his love of music by being the band director at West Memphis Christian School for several years. He was an accomplished trombone player and used that talent and enjoyed it throughout his life, playing in several Memphis area swing bands.
He had an accomplished 29 year military career, serving as a Marine Corps CH-46 helicopter pilot in Vietnam, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross with the HMM-364 Purple Foxes squadron. He transitioned to the Arkansas Army National Guard where he flew the OH-58 for many years as a reservist.
Don loved to be outdoors, playing golf, working in his yard, and watching sports. He was a longtime member of the Missouri Street Church of Christ which he loved very much.
Don was a hero to all three of his sons. Each of them followed in his footsteps through many aspects of their lives. He was always loving, fair, even tempered, and had helpful words to share. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Charlotte Pollock Robbins, son Donald Robbins (Kim) of Germantown, TN, son Stephen Robbins (Amy) of Fort Smith AR, grandchildren Rachel Kirkes, Luke Robbins, Dean Robbins, Ella Robbins, Katherine Elsken, Lily Robbins, and one great granddaughter, Oaklyn Kirkes. He is also survived by one sister, Melba O'Brien (Norman) of Batesville AR, along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be forever loved and forever missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Don was preceded in death by his son Matthew B. Robbins and his brother Bobby D. Robbins.
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7 Condolence(s)
Gayle Watkins
Saturday, March 29, 2025
Don was such a sweet and kind man. I’ll always remember how he loved big band music, watching old westerns and his wiry Dachshund, George. My favorite memory is the story of when he fed him leftover Thanksgiving turkey until he couldn’t handle another bite and had to slowly turn his head away in surrender.
Don was a hero to many, to the men he rescued from the mountainside in Vietnam, to his sons and grandchildren. His memory and legacy will be treasured.
Melissia K Kowis
Thursday, March 27, 2025
I am so sorry for the loss of Don. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. I always enjoyed when I got to visit with ya'll. Praying for the family Charlotte, Don & Stephen.
D C Robbins Construction Team
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Sending our thoughts and prayers to the family. Mr. Robbins will surely be missed.
Holly Baskins Dawson
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Donald & Family
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers for God's healing and comfort during this difficult time
Gary Cordell
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Don was a good man. I remember him keeping the clock and scorebook at WMCS when I use to officiate basketball games.
Also we played a little golf when he was a member at Marion Golf & Athletic Club
Joyce bell
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Charlotte I’m so sorry to hear about don. He was a good man.
Love and prayers Joyce
Michael Ford
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
He was my band director in the 10th grade. I wonderful teacher and someone who made a difference.