ELKHART — John Andrew "Sonny" Robinson Jr., 81, a longtime resident of Elkhart, passed to his rest Thursday, July 23, at Elkhart General Hospital after a brief illness.
Sonny, as he was known to family and friends, was born Oct. 14, 1933, in Lula, Miss. to the late John A. and Elnora (Miller) Robinson Sr.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Kerry "Cat" Ivory; granddaughter Lindsey Marie Ivory; and brothers Harry Lee Robinson and Billy Tide Robinson.
Surviving are his sons, Jeffrey Lynn Ivory of Indianapolis, John J. "J.J." Ivory of Elkhart, Clayton J. Hostetler of Goshen and Deon Robinson of South Bend; daughter Annette Ivory of Indianapolis; brother Henry "Hank" (Jean) Robinson of Elkhart; his sister, Charlie Davis of Fort Wayne; Betty Allen, companion of 40 years; a special aunt, Ruth Johnson; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Sonny attended Southside, Roosevelt and Elkhart High School. He retired from Whitehall Laboratories. Sonny was working for the city of Elkhart Buildings and Grounds Department up until he passed. He also worked at Hotel Elkhart and the Elkhart Police Department garage. Sonny was an avid bowler. He participated in many leagues over the years. He loved old Western movies and spending time with his family.
Funeral services for Sonny will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 30, at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. The Rev. W. Jean Mayes will officiate. Burial will follow in Rice Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to Sonny's family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.