Kenneth Ray Robinson

Kenneth Ray Robinson, aged 82, of Columbus, MS passed away on Friday, April 3 at his home in New Hope.

Mr. Ken, as he was known to many, was born on June 13, 1943 to Berta and Ray Robinson in Meridian, MS. After graduating from Columbus High School in 1961, Ken served his country in the Army National Guard.

Ken and his sweetheart, Margaret (Burford) Robinson, were married October 23, 1965. They went on to have 3 children, Jonathan, Christina, and Maryanna. Upon his marriage to Margaret, Ken began to work for her father, Tolbert Burford, at Burford Electric Service. Ken learned the trade of electric motor repair from him, and in time he and Mrs. Peg purchased the business from her parents. Mr. Ken rose to become a trusted expert in his field and was widely known to many in the electric motor repair and service industry. He grew Burford Electric from a small mom and pop operation into a large, thriving repair center which serviced multiple industries in multiple states. He was respected and loved by his employees, who knew him as a tough, no nonsense boss who expected hard work, but was also loving and generous. Mr. Ken incorporated his faith in Jesus Christ and trust in God’s Word into every aspect of his life, including how he operated his company.

Even though he devoted his life to his faith, family and his business, Ken also enjoyed hunting and travel. His family especially remembers long cross country trips to see Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, and his elk hunting trips with his brothers. Ken especially enjoyed his yearly family reunions at the old home place in Pushmataha, AL with his many cousins.

After retiring, Ken spent his time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who he loved very much. He also enjoyed spending time working on his farm property and deer hunting. He also loved telling stories and anyone that knew him, knew that once he started a story, you were never sure where he’d finish it! He and Mrs. Peg often enjoyed traveling to the Smoky Mountains in Waynesville, North Carolina and spending time at their home there, visiting family. Mr. Ken loved the Lord with all his heart and was not shy to share God’s Word. Many came to know Jesus or be encouraged by his witness. He faithfully supported many ministries, including John Hagee Ministries. In his years in Columbus, he supported several churches with his membership. He was a member of Columbus Christian Center and attended Vibrant Church. Most recently he and Mrs. Peg attended Ethelsville Church of God.

Ken was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Richard (Joan) Robinson and Tom (Sherrie) Riley, and his sister Sherrie Chappell and brother in law Mike Chappell. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Margaret “Peg” Robinson, his sister Jean (James) Newman, his children, Jonathan (Amaris) Robinson, Christina Robinson, and Maryanna (Brian) Ellis. Mr. Ken was blessed with many grandchildren he loved dearly: Trenton Robinson, Brianna Robinson, Eli Robinson, Alyia Brock, Katelyn Jordan, Abigail Brock, Addison Jordan, Julie Ellis, Matthew Beckworth and Avery Davis. Even though Ken’s passing was unexpected, his family rests in the joyful knowledge that he is home with the Lord and rejoicing with his Savior whom he faithfully served all his life. The family welcomes all who knew Ken to join them Friday, April 10th at Lowndes Funeral Home to celebrate his life and witness. Visitation will be from 10-11 am, with funeral services beginning at 11 am, Pastor Kenny Gardner officiating. The graveside service for family will be held immediately following at Memorial Gardens in Columbus.