Bessie Robinson, affectionately known as Mama; excellent mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and child of the true and living God, commenced her earthly journey on December 18, 1920. She was born to Willie Mack and Ada Blake in Willisville, Arkansas. She accepted Jesus Christ at an early age, while being an active member of Pleasant Grove Church. As a quiet and shy child, Bessie attended Nevada City Elementary followed by Rosston High School and later went on to obtain her Bachelor of Science Degree from Philander Smith College. She later used that degree to embark on her career as an educator. Mama later met Solomon Robinson and was unified in marriage. She was bountifully blessed to relocate to Lansing, Michigan. She embellished her dream of becoming a housewife and mother to four beautiful children. She later became a member of Friendship Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. E. Gladstone Scott. She was active in church being a member of the Missionary Ministry Circle #3 and regularly working at repasts. She loved attending Sunday School and was excited about learning of Gods love and grace. Mama was passionate about sports. She spent her pastime watching football and basketball games with her son, Billy, and would often tease him if his team was losing. Mama was overjoyed when her great-grandsons began to play football and would call every week to find out how they did at each game. Mama enjoyed shopping, outings with family, working crossword puzzles and reading in her spare time. Macys and Target were her regular go-tos and she was known by name by most of the sales associates. She enjoyed breakfast at Cracker Barrel and dinner at Red Lobster and Finleys. Mama was truly a family woman that instilled love and values in each of her children and grandchildren. She shared a special bond with every one of them no matter the distance. She loved to cook and bake for them. The simple things in life made Mama happy and content. Mamas famous line was, We can all sit here and eat peas and cornbread. Mama had a personal relationship with each of her children. Her oldest and only son, Billy was the equivalent of a best friend; Joyce, her trusty sidekick; Janet was the educator; Pat, her confidant. Mama provided her the necessary tools and confidence to ensure that Janet would fulfill her goals and Mamas dreams. She basically followed in Mamas footsteps and became an educator. Mama discussed everything with Pat and instilled high standards in her. They shared many laughs and supported each other when facing lifes challenges. Mama was definitely Pats life coach. Mama was an exceptional grandmother. She always enjoyed being surrounded by the presence and noise of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lamar was the oldest grandson and she loved him dearly. She invested a lot of energy into Chaprie ensuring she excelled academically and socially. Mama and Jessica talked almost daily and she shared her words of wisdom as Jessica attempted to modernize Mama. Cherise was Mamas baby and her shopping partner. Blake was the youngest of the bunch which Mama referred to as the California Girl. Besides providing a loving home for her family, Mama read her bible daily and applied it to her day-to-day life. Mama transitioned from her earthly tabernacle to a new body and heavenly home on October 7, 2012. Her sudden illness was an occasion for her to have a final reunion with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed every moment of it, laughing and still spreading her wisdom until death succumbed her and she crossed over to eternal life. She leaves to forever cherish her memory: her son, Billy Robinson of Lansing; daughter, Janet Robinson of Carson, California; Patricia Robinson of Laurel, Maryland; Grandson, Lamar Robinson of Lansing, granddaughters, Chaprie Robinson of Beltsville, Maryland ; Jessica Foreman of Beltsville, Maryland; Cherise Robinson of Lansing; Blake McPheeters of Carson, California; grandchildren, Larissa Robinson, Jaris Foreman, Jaire Foreman, and Saniyah Williams; Lilla Preyer of Little Rock, Arkansas; and brother, James Blake of Muskegon , Michigan; other relative and friends. Friends may visit Mrs. Robinson Friday, October 12, 2012 from 12-9pm at Riley Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 11am at Friendship Baptist Church 2912 Pleasant Grove Road, Lansing, MI 48910. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the service