Ms. Viola "Sapphira" Lynn Robinson

Viola (Sapphira) Lynn Robinson passed away October 3, 2012. She was born in Brookhaven, MS on June 20, 1955 to proud parents Lucky Hugh Robinson and Josie Mary Thompson. Mr. and Mrs Robinson relocated their family to Chicago, IL. She attended Point Baptist DuSable High School during the early 1970's. She grew up a fine, determined young woman with drive to do all she could within her purpose for living on God's earth. Viola felt strongly about education. She obtained her GED at Circle A High School and attended Kennedy King Community College for general studies. She met Yeshwua Ben Israel and moved to Kalamazoo, MI. Sapphira birthed three beautiful and determined children. She also earned a Business Certificate and Associates in Early Childhood Development. She graduated from both Kalamazoo Valley Community College and Western Michigan University with a Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts. Sapphira served our youth and community as an early childhood development professional for 28 years. She was recognized in the Who's Who Among America's Teachers book of 2004-2005. Being nominated for Poet Choice Awards for several pieces of her lyrical art, poems, traveling to Florida interacting with other poets from across the country. Sapphira was a dedicated, sincere, exceptional teacher of very young students. She loved teaching. She taught and represented good morale, respect and independence at their tender early ages. Some students remember her through today for her kindness and what they learned from her. Standing to reserve and protect rights of teachers she served with the union of county employees for several terms. Traveling several states to gain wisdom and direction for the next generation of youth she nurtured. Viola Lynn (Sapphira) Robinson leaves to cherish her memories: Yeshwua Ben Israel; their children: Mrs. Sariah (Robert) Lofton; Mrs. Zipporah (Kris) Tennyson and Eliezer Ben Israel; 7 grandchildren: Kamarria Hampton, Aquile Jordan, Jaidyn Israel, Robert Lofton Jr., Kullin Tennyson, Riah Lofton, E'Moni Israel; brothers: Ray Charles, Lawrence, Joe Cal, Roscoe Sr. Archie, Lucky Jr. and Emil Robinson; a sister Mrs. Carolyn Joyce King; also family: Mr. and Mrs. Carl Reed; Mr. and Mrs. Gwen Jordan; Mr. and Mr. Marvin Woods and James Rodgers; 4 aunts and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. Also loving sisters of another mother, Sherry Hoyt and Sheila Bowman.

Ms. Viola "Sapphira" Lynn Robinson

June 20, 1955 - October 3, 2012