Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson, affectionately known as “Jack” “JR”, “Coach” and “Coach Rob” was born to the late Evelyn Robinson and Guy Roach Sr.  He entered this world on March 21, 1951 in Seaford, DE.  He transitioned peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Monday, May 29, 2023, at Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus in Dover, DE.

Jackie attended grade school at the Frederick Douglas School in Seaford, DE and later graduated from Lewes Senior High School in Lewes, DE, where he excelled in baseball and football.  He furthered his education at Delaware State College (now University), receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education.  After graduation, Jackie went on for a short period of time, as an Assistant Coach for the Minnesota Vikings.  Upon his return to Delaware State, he became the Head Wrestling Coach, Head Baseball Coach and Assistant Football Coach; he also took his teams to the MEAC Championships in Wrestling and Baseball.  In addition, he was an Assistant Coach for the 1977 Hornets “Orange Blossom” Classic Football team under the late Coach Wyche.  Another highlight while at Delaware State, was Jackie meeting the love of his life, formerly known as Phyllis West and they were united in marriage in 1976.  Jackie also headed up the NYSP (National Youth Sports Program) at Delaware State Campus during the summers, for area kids within the community.  Jackie eventually returned back to school and earned his Master’s Degree in Education from West Chester University.  Jackie then became a Driver’s Education Teacher and Football Coach for the Delaware Public School Systems at Woodbridge High School, Lake Forest High School, Sussex Technical High School and ultimately retiring from Dickinson High School.  He enjoyed the challenges of working with kids from backgrounds such as his own.  

As a young boy, he thoroughly enjoyed being mischievous.  Jackie had a love for sports and an innate ability to play them all.  Jackie was the known protector of the family, and everyone knew not mess with the Robinson’s.  Out of all the siblings, Jackie was overly protective of his sister Ethel.  During his childhood, he was expected to participate in church services and activities.  Jackie’s first job was when he was in the 9th grade bailing cardboard after school in order to make money and share with his family.  His first purchase with his money was a pair of “Chuck Taylors” Converse sneakers, a portable record player and two 45in vinyl records; “Daytripper” by the Beatles and “Dang Me” by Roger Miller.  Jackie made sure every sibling in his family had an opportunity to attend college and would go out his way to ensure that they understood how important, furthering your education was. 

Jackie was a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.  Jackie was also a member of the Dover Lions Club.  He was an avid fan of NASCAR racing, the Philadelphia Eagles and anything Delaware State.  He had a diverse taste in music with some of his favorite artists being Rod Stewart, Phil Collins, Frankie Beverly & Maze, Anita Baker and his absolute favorite Janet Jackson.  Jackie had a love for sports and luxury cars as well as motorcycles.  However, in due time, Phyllis made him return the motorcycle.  Jackie was a proud brother and leader for his siblings that he cared for immensely and would never hesitate to jump to their defense.  More than anything, he loved his kids.  There was no river too deep or a mountain too high that he wouldn’t cross for Angie and Bryan.  Jackie was always the life of the party and employed everyone to let go, have fun and enjoy life.  

Jackie was preceded in death by his Mother, Evelyn Robinson and Father, Guy Roach Sr.; Beloved Wife of 45 years, Phyllis L.W. Robinson; Father-In-Law, Curtis West; Sisters Shirley Parsons and Virginia Bryant (Kennard); Sister-In-Law, Shirley Robinson; Brothers James (Jimmie) Robinson and Rev. Norman Robinson.  Left with memories to cherish and celebrate, are his Mother-In Law, Margaret West, of Laurel, DE; Daughter, Angela Robinson, of Magnolia, DE; Son, Bryan Robinson (Cashea), of Dover, DE; Granddaughters, Jada Robinson and Leila Kelly-Robinson; Grandsons Colton Savage and Blake Robinson;  Sisters, Ethel Robinson, of Milford, DE;  Elder Sandy Robinson, of Providence, RI; Denise Robinson, of Laurel, DE; Cathy Robinson, of Nashville, TN; Ronell Brown, of Seaford, DE; Novella Johnson, of Seaford, DE and Vernetta Waples (Robert) of Seaford, DE; Brothers, William Robinson, of Upper Marlboro, MD; Donald Robinson (Natallia), of Rehoboth Beach, DE; Dennis Robinson (Tammy), of Dallas, TX; Juan Roach (Sharon), of Middletown, DE; Guy Roach (Darlene), of Bridgeville, DE and Terrance Roach of Seaford, DE; Sister-In-Law, Thelma West of Laurel, DE; Brother-In-Law, Wilmer West of Laurel, DE; and a host nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished friends.