Ada Robinson

Ada Ella Whitney Robinson, went home to be with the Lord on April 25, 2020 at the age of 91, the youngest of four children, was born to Ada Ellen and Joseph Whitney on October 27, 1928 in New York City.

Ada lived a full life, obtaining her Bachelor’s degree from Hampton Institute, a Master’s degree from Howard University and also served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army. She married Alvin R. Robinson in 1956. They lived in Chattanooga with their five children and were married for 57 years. After her husband died, Ada remained in Chattanooga with family and friends until 2017, when she moved to Washington D.C. for the final two years of her life.

In Chattanooga, she first worked as a dietician and then as a teacher at Elbert Long Elementary School for many years. She was active in several clubs and organizations including the Charisma Club, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Scenic City Chorale and was a board member of the Chattanooga African American Museum. She was an avid charter member of the Washington Hills United Methodist Church, singing in the choir and participating in Vacation Bible School yearly.

Ada is survived by her five children: Cora (Ed) Smith, Roy (Faye) Robinson, Cecile (Nikongo) Robinson, Drs. Audrey and Terry Thompson and Alvin (Anastasia) Robinson; eight grandchildren: Aaron Smith, Whitney (Josh) Broadbent, Nathan Robinson, Ivana Robinson, Nikongo BaNikongo, Kenge BaNikongo, Alexander Robinson, Ava Robinson; and one great grandson: Asher Broadbent. Ada is also survived by nieces: Saundra (Donald) Curry and Karen Whitney; nephews: Wendell and Bryan (Nancy) Holland and other relatives. Ada will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all those who knew her.

Services will be held privately. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment: Chattanooga National Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Gamma Sigma Theta Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho and online condolences can be added to the Guestbook on the John P. Franklin website.

Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 423-622-9995