Phyllis Robinson was born on July 25, 1951, at the Women’s Hospital (now known as Mount Sinai), to Fred Melvin Robinson and Clara Edmonia Gregory. She grew up in Harlem, New York City, where she attended Robert F. Wagner Junior High School, P.S. 167 and Julia Richmond High School. In 1969, Phyllis graduated from Julia Richmond High School and then went on to attend Fordham University. In 1977, she graduated with a B.A. degree in Mathematics.
A diligent worker, with a diverse skill set and a strong commitment to excellence in everything she pursued, Phyllis worked in many positions. A year after graduating from Fordham, she worked for the Chrysler Corporation as a systems engineer. During her time at Chrysler, she developed the skills that helped her to move into the position of Program Manager, and later Operations Research Analyst, for the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Command department (USTACOM). During her tenure there she received at least two commendations for outstanding work performance.
After a few years, Phyllis decided to move back home to New York and started a career in Medical Information Systems. In 2001, she received training at the SUNY Downstate Medical Information Systems Technical (MIST) program. This training, coupled with her previous experience with data systems, provided opportunities for her to work as a Clerical Associate for Kings County Hospital. In addition, Phyllis worked as an independent contractor in medical billing for various physicians’ offices. It was 2003 when Phyllis received the offer to work for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) as a station agent. In 2014, she found her “office home” within MTA Tower Operations, where she made a positive impact until she was called home to be with the Lord.
Phyllis was an influential and humble woman. Her warm heart, and passion for helping showed up in her interactions with others. A woman of faith, she exemplified her belief in God by helping to serve His people in any capacity she could. A leader by example, she made the most of every opportunity and encouraged others to do the same. Being a pragmatic problem solver, Phyllis was always looking for the best ways to handle issues both in her professional and personal life. Besides her interest in computers, Phyllis loved to crochet, sing in the church choir, and watch Science Fiction shows. The Star Trek series was one of her favorites with Marvel and DC comics trailing into second and third place.
Phyllis was predeceased by her parents Fred and Clara Robinson. Left to mourn her passing: her daughter, Francine Camille Clara Ward, future son-in-law Michael Robert Johnson, and grandchildren Jalen Michael Johnson and Abigail Phyllis Johnson. She is also survived by her brothers Stanley (Betty) Melvin Robinson and Mark (Pia) Gregory Robinson. Aunts Helen Brandon and Lelia Winfrey. Cousins Raymond Gregory, Lynne Sekou, Karen Winfrey, and Kimberly Greene. Nieces Kamaria Robinson and Azziza Robinson, a host of friends, and co-workers.
Phyllis will be missed by her family, friends and associates. She was truly a remarkable woman. Although we mourn her absence from us, we rejoice that she is with the Lord.
A memorial service for Phyllis will be held Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at M.J. Smith Sons, 255 Ninth Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215.
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