Jay D. Robinson

Jay Douglas Robinson, 80, noted sportsman, businessman, and lawn maintenance expert, passed away on November 16, 2018. He was surrounded at death as he was in life: by the family who cherish him. A life-long resident of Indianapolis -- one who left the city only begrudgingly for even the shortest of trips -- Doug was born on October 5, 1938 to Robert D. and Blanche (Saxe) Robinson. He attended Shortridge High School, where he excelled in both basketball and tennis and later Butler University where he earned a varsity letter in tennis.

Doug's life revolved around sports. As a player, he was the ultimate teammate and competitor. His careers in basketball and tennis allowed him to play against sporting legends like Oscar Robertson (whom he would brag he once held to 32 points in a game) and Bobby Riggs (whom he would recall with great disappointment won one point against him wearing a dress and holding a dog on a leash), and to be coached by greats such as Cleon Reynolds and Tony Hinkle. Ultimately though, and despite his competitive nature, his many wins and losses were overshadowed by the friends he made both on and off the court, all of whom enriched his life and sustained him.

As Doug's own sports career waned, his athletic influence peaked: he shone brightest as he transitioned from player to coach (and biggest fan) of his children and grandchildren. As a spectator, Doug's punctuality was unrivaled (if his kids were on the field, Doug was the first one in the bleachers) and his attire was invariable (you could find him in a rotating uniform of St. Luke, Brebeuf Jesuit, Chatard, Dayton, DePauw, and Notre Dame hoodies and hats). Anyone lucky enough to find a seat next to Doug quickly became witness to his remarkable optimism, his gut-crushing humor, and his singular ability to amplify wins and temper losses.

As a coach, Doug modeled the patience, passion, and camaraderie that he instilled in his players. His coaching career began with his children's teams at the Jordan YMCA and ended with his grandkids' teams at First Baptist and St. Luke Catholic School, where he was ultimately honored with the Monsignor Albert Busald Award for his service to CYO programs in 2006, which made him so proud. Always the competitor, Doug loved to see his teams win, but victory is not what drove him. He gained more satisfaction from watching one of his players score their first basket than he did from raising a championship trophy. For Doug, the scoreboard tracked his seasons in joy and friendship, and on those measures he never lost a game.

As the 30-year owner of State Gear Company in Indianapolis, Doug considered all of his employees family and loved them dearly. He was a longstanding member of the Board of Directors for the Indianapolis Police Athletic League and a firm believer in its mission of empowering youth through sports. He served on the Board of Directors for numerous companies, and was a long-time member of Woodstock Country Club, where his Club Championships on the courts and banter in the locker room were equally legendary. Whether in sports or a board room, the many friendships he formed meant the world to him.

When he wasn't in the office or atop the bleachers, Doug was almost always tending to his yard or entertaining visitors in his garage. His 82nd street property was immaculate, a perfect playground for his grandchildren and their daylong games of football and hide-and-seek. His garage was a north-side town square, a meeting place for family, friends, and the not-infrequent stranger -- all of whom he welcomed and treated like they were the most important person in his world.

Ultimately, Doug will be remembered for a million little moments - moments he worked to create with his quick smile, cutting humor, and genuine interest in the lives of others. Altogether, these little moments formed a magnificent life of connection and community. He will be greatly missed.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, by his beloved sisters Janice (Robinson) Thompson and Jeanne (Robinson) McFall, and by his wife Carole (Healy) Robinson. He is survived by his brother (and hero) Dr. Robert (Bobby) D. Robinson Jr., his children Jay D. Robinson, Jr. and wife Brigid; Lee Corr and husband Mike; Rene Barnard and husband Tom; David Robinson and wife Sarah; and John and Andrea Robinson. Doug's grandchildren, all of whom were the center of his universe, are Luke, Brian, Matt, and J.D. Robinson; Michael, Kate, Robbie and Clare Corr; Anna, Dougie, Carly, Izak, and Eva Barnard; Dawson, Jack, and Hope Robinson; and Olivia, Raye, and Johnny Robinson. Doug also leaves behind 19 nephews and nieces and 57 great-nephews and nieces, all of whom he equally adored.

Doug's family gratefully acknowledges the doctors, nurses and caregivers of Urology of Indiana and St. Vincent Hospital for the loving care they provided during his recent illnesses, and all our friends for the support they provided to our entire family both before and following his passing.

A private service and burial will be held on Saturday, November 24. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Brebeuf Fund. Please indicate "In memory of Doug Robinson" on your donation and contribute online at www. brebeuf.org/support-brebeuf/make-your-gift-online.