Robinson honored with resolution celebrating her 110th milestone birthday

Rep. Ben Robbins, center, recently presented a resolution to Emma Robinson of Goodwater and her family on behalf of the Alabama Legislature in honor of her 110th birthday. Photo submitted

 

By Christa Jennings

Senior Staff Writer

 

A Coosa County supercentenarian was honored last week by Rep. Ben Robbins on behalf of the Alabama Legislature, following the legislature passing and adopting a resolution in April honoring the one hundred and tenth birthday of Emma Robinson of Goodwater.

Robbins and Sen. Clyde Chambliss, who represent Coosa County, passed the resolution honoring Robinson for turning 110 years old and becoming a supercentenarian. Robbins presented the resolution to Robinson last Thursday, June 6.

The House Bill’s information noted that Robinson becoming a supercentenarian is a rare milestone indeed, as only about one in 1,000 centenarians achieve such a milestone.

Born to Rufus and Pearlie Tucker in LaFayette in Chambers County, Robinson was educated locally and went on to earn teaching degrees from Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University. She also played an active role in the Civil Rights Movement, participating in marches in Tuskegee and Montgomery, which is also where she met her husband, Steven Robinson, a minister.

She moved to Talladega when her husband became the pastor of Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church, and she worked as a teacher in the Talladega City and Talladega County school systems for 35 years until her retirement.

Her contributions to the community were also recognized by a proclamation from Talladega Mayor Ashton Hall and Councilmember Vickey Robinson Hall.

Introductory text for the bill presented regarding the resolution noted, “The Alabama Legislature honors Emma Robinson on her 110th birthday, offering her this resolution as a tribute to her life’s achievements and with best wishes for her continued well-being.”

In part, the resolution celebrating Robinson’s milestone birthday reads, “Whereas, with special pleasure, we offer joyful felicitations to Emma Robinson, who was born on February 9, 1914, and has reached her 110th birthday; this makes her a supercentenarian, a milestone achieved by only about one in 1,000 centenarians; and whereas… she was passionate about educating children and found joy in helping them reach their fullest potential; and whereas, Mrs. Robinson has been honored by a proclamation presented by Talladega Mayor Ashton Hall and Councilwoman Vickey Robinson Hall in appreciation for the positive influence that she has had on her community; and whereas a 110th birthday is a significant milestone that represents a century plus a decade worth of wisdom earned and memories gained and is a cause for great rejoicing; it is a tremendous privilege to recognize a remarkable lady such as Emma Robinson on her special day; now therefore, be it resolved by the Legislature of Alabama, both houses thereof concurring, that supercentenarian, Emma Robinson, is highly honored and commended, and this resolution is offered to her in highest tribute, as well as with sincere best wishes for continued prosperity and blessings.”