Billy Joe Robinson, 88, of Bauxite, passed away peacefully on September 5th in his home in the Sardis community surrounded by those who loved him.

Bill Robinson was born on December 1st, 1936 in Newport, Arkansas to Arthur and Elizabeth. HIs father passed away when he was only 5 years old and he spent a good deal of his younger years with his grandpa Collier. He had wonderful memories and told amazing stories of those times. Being raised by a single mother meant hard work was always a part of his life; from picking cotton as a young boy to working on the pipeline during summers in high school. After graduation, Bill served in the air force for one term. Upon returning home, he attended college at Arkansas State University and University of Arkansas at Little Rock.  Bill relocated to North Little Rock Arkansas, where he met and fell in love with his neighbor, Joe Ann. Together, they built a beautiful life and eventually put down roots in the Sardis community.  Always a hard worker, Bill lived to make sure his family was taken care of. He owned Bopp Liquor Store where he worked tirelessly until retiring at the age of 80. He enjoyed rabbit hunting with his packs of beagles and became very involved in the Sardis ballpark when his girls were playing softball. He served as president of the ball park and as softball commissioner. Family was always his top priority. As his girls grew and had their own children, his love for his family grew with it. Bill always made sure his four grandchildren were taken care of as well, sharing the love for another generation. Throughout his life, Bill valued education, hard work, and family.  The legacy that he leaves behind is a family unit that knows family is, and will forever be, the foundation of our lives.

Bill is preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 46 years Joe Ann, baby daughter Lesa, father Arthur, mother Elizabeth Keller, and brothers Tom Robinson and John Robinson.  He is survived by his daughters Shelley Smith and Jennifer Abels, grandchildren Nicolas Garcia (Samantha Garcia), Hannah Abels (Bri Abels), Abby Abels and Morgan Smith, one great grandchild, Evie Garcia, and two sisters Betty Haigwood and Margaret Hutchison.

Visitation to be held Thursday September 11th from 5:00-7:00pm at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas.

There will be a small graveside service in Atkins, AR on Friday, September 12th at 12:00pm.