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U.S. Highway 280 just outside of Ailey. Apparently, his car left the roadway and overturned. He was the only occupant of the vehicle.

A 1978 graduate of Robert Toombs Christian Academy, Robison attended Presbyterian College, and was a graduate of the University of Georgia earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture.

He was an Eagle Scout and 5th generation farmer, and he was happiest spending time in his pecan orchards. He served as President of the Georgia Pecan Growers Association and with the Georgia Pecan Commodities Commission.

His past community service includes serving on the Toombs Montgomery Development Authority. He was also a member of the Southeastern Tech Foundation Board and a member of the Robert Toombs Christian Academy Board of Directors.

He was a charter member of The Oaks Baptist Church where he served as usher chairman, as a member of the Men on Mission, and on the Finance Team.

Robison was deeply appreciated for his contributions to the Georgia Pecan Growers Association. The Board of Directors issued this comment: “There is not a grower in this industry that doesn’t have a special story to share about John. Though a quiet spoken man by nature, he sure had a way of leaving a strong, positive impression on all he met. John was a kind and honest man of integrity. John was a Great Man of God and led by example for us all. A man like John will be greatly missed. The Georgia pecan family will be praying for his family during this difficult time.”

On behalf of the Greater Vidalia Chamber and Toombs County Development Authority, Michele B. Johnson, Chamber President and Authority Executive Director, issued this statement: “The Toombs County Development Authority is mourning the huge loss of a local community leader, Mr. John L. Robison, Jr., immediate Past Chair. Mr. Robison served two terms on the Authority, first, from 2005 until 2009, then, from 2019 until 2021. He served as Chair in 2021.

“During his tenure on the Authority, he helped generate investment and employment opportunities for the community through multiple new industry location projects, several existing industry expansions, and local product development activities, including local workforce development initiatives and the construction of three spec buildings.

“His wisdom, vision, and determination made him a guiding force on the Authority board over two terms totaling eight years and we are grateful for his invaluable contributions. He will truly be missed by all who had the privilege to know and work with him. We offer condolences to Mr. Robison’s family.”

The Rev. Christian Burton, who officiated at Robison’s funeral on Tuesday, had this to say about his friend and church member: “It is difficult for me to think of The Oaks Baptist Church without also thinking of John Robison. He was a charter member and has remained faithful to this body of Christ. For 20 years he has served in numerous ways. He taught Sunday school, served on the Finance and Budget Team, participated in numerous mission projects, and helped to make sure church services ran smoothly by overseeing the ushers.

“John was so active in so many ways. He leaves big shoes to fill. We find comfort in knowing that his presence remains with us. While we will miss all that he offered his church, we will continue to follow his example and the spirit in which he presented himself for service in the Kingdom of God. What I miss most, though, is what we will not be able to replace. His friendship, his kind words, and his sincere concern for our wellbeing made a genuine difference to so many people. We are simply glad that our lives intersected with his and that we were able to know John Robison as a friend.”

Robison was preceded in death by his parents, John L. “Buddy” and Emily Crumley Robison. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Celeste Robison of Lyons; one son, Weston Robison and his wife Susannah of Atlanta; and one brother, Charlie Robison of Ailey.

Following the funeral service at The Oaks Baptist Church, burial followed in the Peterson Cemetery in Ailey.