Richard Cole Robbins

Rick grew up at Aldersgate United Methodist Church and was a Christian who shared God’s love with others. He was active in many church activities including the Boy Scouts where he earned Eagle Scout honors. Rick graduated from Elliston Baptist Academy in 1977 where he loved football, track, and baseball. His jokes and shenanigans were the life of the school on and off the field. Rick enlisted in the Air Force and was a Staff Sergeant at the end of his tour. He earned numerous honors and medals over his 18 years of service. Rick also served as a police officer on the Memphis and Bartlett police departments. Rick was a loving father to Austin Robbins, and loving grandfather to his grandchildren.

Rick re-connected with a friend from high school, Vickie Vanlandingham Wyatt. Their friendship and love for each other grew over the years. Rick is the love of her life as she is the love of his. Rick moved to Heath, Texas to start a loving and hilarious life together with Vickie.

Rick is survived by his son, Austin Robbins, his mother, Mary Robbins, brothers, Ronald (Ronnie) Robbins (Deb) and Mike Robbins (Regina), sister, Cathy Boice, half-sister, Carrol Holman (Ray) and half-brother, Calvin Giles, grandchildren, Tanner, Cora, Finley, Aiden, Karson, Caleigh, many nieces, nephews and friends.

Rick was predeceased by his father, Robert Robbins, Sr., mother, Jean Giles, and brother, Robert Robbins, Jr.

Visitation for Rick will be held Thursday, December 26, 10am and service 11am at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN. 38119. Pastor Rick Pinkston to officiate. Burial service will be at 1pm, West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 4000 Forest Hill Irene, Germantown, TN, for the immediate family only.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to ALS.org or a veteran’s charity of your choice.