Ann Redding Robinson
Ann Redding Robinson, 89, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her devoted family on Saturday, March 16, 2024.
Ann was born in Jacksonville, Fl., and spent time in her early life between Canada and the southern U.S.- coming of age in Chattanooga. There she would meet her husband Edward Robinson and raise four children, building the foundation of what is now her family legacy. After mothering, her most important role was “Nana” in the lives of her 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. They all could rely on her keen eye for beauty and her wise words in times of need. She was a woman of style and substance, effortlessly blending her sharp intellect with warmth as she guided her family over the years.
Her magic truly came to life as a hostess, committed to bringing her large family together for holidays and events full of life and laughter, all done in her characteristic style– with an elegant outfit, a graceful hand and a heavy swath of red lipstick. She planned, cooked, and set a perfect table, always with the good china, pressed napkins, and glassware. And no one could forget to look around the corner for her infamous fudge.
Ann’s vibrance, energy, and strength were apparent in all facets of life. In addition to her devotion to family and community, she enjoyed a varied career, with dedication to her advocacy work and to making a difference in the lives of children.
She was a real renaissance woman. Ann worked as a model, a dental assistant, and as an interior designer for Transart Industries. She was the founder and president of the Tennessee Association of Children with Learning Disabilities, where she was a tireless advocate for children with special needs in the public-school systems. The impact of this work is still felt by families and children today.
In her free time, Ann enjoyed gardening, spending time with her many rescue dogs, and showing up in the perfect attire for every occasion.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents Virlyn and John Redding, her husband of 65 years Edward Robinson, brother Don Redding, daughter-in-law, Susan Q. Robinson, and grandson, Chip Cummings.
She is survived and leaves a beautiful legacy to her dear sons Wade Robinson, Sr. Matt Robinson, Sr. (Amy), Mark Robinson, Sr. (Sue) and beloved daughter Margaret Ann “Meg” Robinson and daughter-in-law Joanie Robinson; her grandchildren: Karen Tinsley, Elizabeth Ross, Ash Robinson (Jeremy), Mary-Margaret Moore (David), Matt Robinson, Jr. (Lidia), Mark “Chad” Robinson, Jr., (Megan), Wade H.C. Robinson, Jr., Michael Robinson, (Tiffanie), Emily Burke (Adam), and Abigail Robinson; her great-grandchildren: Cade, Caroline, Kristen, Josh, Isaac, Ellie, Camden, Luka, Eli, Mac, Riley, Zivi, Redding, Wade Hampton, Mia Ann, Rhodes, Charlie Ann, and Sophia; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.
We will honor Ann’s wishes and her journey with a Celebration of Life, the details of which will be forthcoming for those who would like to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, www.stjude.org.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the caring and compassionate nurses and doctors at Erlanger East, who provided care and comfort, and to the deeply wonderful people at Hospice of Chattanooga Care Center who guided her and her family during her last days and hours with us.
Funeral Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.