William Matthews Robinson

Bill Robinson passed away peacefully at his home in Fort Walton Beach Sunday, October 6, 2019 on the morning of his 80th birthday.

Born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Lee and Mary Robinson, his older siblings, Harry Lee Jr. (Sonny), Mary Ann Mohead, brother-in-law John Mohead, and niece Ann Whittle.

This great man is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Pearl Robinson; his children: Paula Zaher and son-in-law Chris, William Matthews Jr. (Matt), Judge Coleman Lee (Lee) and daughter-in-law Bethany; grandchildren: Hannah Lauren, Jonah Lee and Elijah Matthews; and numerous nieces and nephews, including his special niece, Nancy Lee Callahan and husband James.

Actively involved in his community, even into retirement, Bill dedicated his life to serving those in need and helping others. He served as Executive Director of the United Way of Okaloosa/Walton counties for 25 years. Prior to that, he served as an Executive in the Boy Scouts of America for 27 years in Alabama, Tennessee and Florida.

He was truly a pillar of his community and a devoted family man. He will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 pm Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Road NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL, 32547. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, October 9, 2019 at Shalimar United Methodist Church, 1 Ferry Road, Shalimar, FL. Burial will take place immediately following at Beal Memorial Cemetery in Fort Walton Beach. Per his request, ties are optional!

In lieu of flowers, he requested donations be made to the Shalimar UMC Youth Choir or Building fund, or charity of choice.