Obituary of Donnel Robinson Sr.

In obedience to God’s divine will, Donnel Robinson Sr., beloved husband, father, brother and grandfather departed this life Saturday, December 10, 2017 at his home in Sapulpa, Oklahoma.  A longtime resident of Sapulpa, Donnel was born the fifth of eight children to his parents, Frank & Leola Robinson.  His parents, three Brothers (Ivory, Johnny and Arthur) and three Sisters (Almeta, Shirley and Juanita) all preceded him in death.

Donnel was a pillar of the African American community in Sapulpa and was instrumental in making many changes as a civil rights activist and a political figure.  He instituted changes in Sapulpa by running for county commissioner and the Sapulpa School Board.

He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School where he met and married the Love of his life, Wilma Nash.  To this union four sons were born; Donnel Jr., Stanley, Kenneth and Duane. 

Affectionately known as “Joe”, Donnel owned and operated “Smokey Joe’s Bar-B-Que and Robinson’s Painting Company in Mannford, Oklahoma after 17 years of employment at Texaco Oil Refinery.  He was the President of the Gambler’s Motorcycle Organization for many years.

Donnel was a faithful member of the “The Upper Room God’s House of Prayer “and Mount Olive Baptist Church until he re-united with Calvary Baptist Church this year.  Donnel’s health began to fail resulting in hospitalizations, surgery and confinement at home until his death, surrounded by his loving family.  He leaves to cherish his memory his Devoted Wife, Wilma, His four sons, Donnel Jr., Stanley, Kenneth and Duane and his Sister, Rosa Jernigan, all of Sapulpa.

Donnel’s extended family includes many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and a special Aunt & Uncle, Ola Mae Shaw & Jessie Shaw of Sapulpa, as well as a host of other relatives and friends.  He will truly be missed.

Visitation-Thursday12/14/17 at Green Hill Funeral Home Chapel in Sapulpa.

Funeral Services-11:00 am Friday 12/15/17 at Calvary Baptist Church 412 N 7th St. Sapulpa.

Final Resting Place-North Heights Cemetery Sapulpa.

918-224-2312