Ms. Emily Turnipseed Robinson

Emily Turnipseed Robinson, affectionately known as “Sis”, was born on January 18, 1936 in Columbia, South Carolina to the late Willie Richardson and Charlotte Turnipseed. Emily departed this earthly journey on February 29, 2020.

Emily was educated in the public schools of Richland County. She dedicated her life to being a counselor and aide to others. Emily opened her home to neighbors and friends in need and never hesitated to give a hot meal to anyone walking through her doors. Her infectious sense of humor and amusing storytelling abilities made her fun to be around. Emily’s empathy towards those most vulnerable made lasting impressions on anyone that knew her. She was also not afraid to unleash her quick wit and sharp tongue when the occasion aroused.

Emily’s beginnings were humble, she always expected great things from her children. Emily was the family’s original drill instructor and demanded that her children exhibit respect, honesty, and pride in all that they do.

Emily was a longtime member of Mill Creek AME Church in Columbia, SC until poor health made it difficult to attend. Her hobbies included completing word search puzzles and watching classic TV shows, often waking up at 2:00 am to watch episodes of “Mannix”. Years of declining health may have slowed her down physically, but she had an innate ability to report on breaking local, national, and international news.

Emily was preceded in death by her husband, Frederick Robinson; parents, Willie Richardson and Charlotte Turnipseed; daughter, Evelyn Matthews; sisters, Johnnie Mae Harris and Evelyn Maxwell; and one brother, Eugene Turnipseed, Sr.

Emily leaves to cherish her precious memory her five daughters, Pamela (Benjamin) Graham, Beverly (Stuart) Shields, Charlene (John) Chambers, Janet (Hemphill Pride, III) Irvine, and Chandra Cleveland; one son, Troy (Nicole) Ivery; twelve grandchildren, Shawn, Ricole, Candice, Antwan, Claude Jr., Coby, Jordhan, Kiyana, Leslie, Deuce, Morgan, and Shawne; two special nieces, Trici (Jonathan) Davis, and Cynthia (Anthony) McLaughlin; two sisters-in-law, Mary Clyde Danzler and Bertine Castleberry; one son-in-law, Claude Matthews, Sr.; twenty great-grandchildren; a special friend, Doris E. Shields of Columbus, OH; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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