Thomas "Dewey" Robinson

Thomas Dewey Robinson, affectionately called “Dewey” by family and friends, passed away on April 16, 2026, at the age of 81 at Lexington Medical Center in West Columbia, SC. Born on July 5, 1944, to the late Lillie Bell Hope Robinson and Tommy Robinson.

A man of honorable character, Dewey served his country with distinction for three years in the United States Air Force. Achieving the rank of Sergeant, his service during the Vietnam era earned him numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and the 3635 Combat Crew Training Wing. His military journey took him across the globe, and his travels included Reno, Nevada, Amarillo, Texas, and Thailand, just to name a few.

Upon returning to civilian life, Dewey continued his education at Midlands Technical College and built a dedicated career through his work at General Electric, Allied Signal, and eventually Irmo Middle School. Whether in the military, the factory, or the halls of a school, he was known as a man who would help anyone in need.

Dewey was formally married to the late Trudy (Wright) Robinson, with whom he shared three children and welcomed her two children into his heart. He later married Ernestine (Adams) Robinson, further expanding his legacy of love as he welcomed her children into his heart. Their blended families became one.

In addition to his parents, Dewey was preceded in death by his wife, Ernestine Robinson; his son, Anthony Robinson; his stepson, Gregory Adams; stepdaughters, Myra Wright and Wanda Adams; his brothers, Charlie Cook, Jr., John Edward Robinson, James Franklin Robinson, and Calvin Carnell Robinson; his sisters, Elizabeth Haltiwanger and Eula Rae Robinson; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Cook and his brothers-in-law, Oneal Haltiwanger, James Huggins and Larry Wise.

Dewey’s legacy of love continues through his sons, Thomas (LaShoun) Wright and Maurice (Cornelia) Robinson; his stepchildren; four grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sisters, Leila “Pearl” Huggins, Effie (Ted) Lewis, Laura “Ann” (Sedrick) Pollock, Lillie “Keedy” Wise, and Elease “Lee” Garner; as well as sisters-in-law, Carolyn Robinson and Frances Robinson; and a host of nephews, nieces, other loving relatives and dear friends.

Dewey found his greatest joy in the simple moments spent with his family. He was a man of few words whose kindness left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.

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