Roll Call Tribute

Ronald Jay Robbins, Capt. USAF (Ret.) 

July 24, 1946 - April 18, 2024 

Capt. Ronald J. Robbins USAF, 77, of Roseville, CA, entered into eternal rest on April 18, 2024 having spent his final weeks bidding farewell to his family and closest friends. Born on July 24, 1946 to Lt. Gen. Jay T. Robbins USAF and Ina L. Robbins in Riverside, CA, Ron attended several schools and high schools before enrolling at Texas A&M University, like his father, and graduating with a degree in political science. From there, he continued to follow in his father’s footsteps by serving his country in the United States Air Force.

In the C-130, Captain Robbins proved to be both an extremely skilled pilot as well as a highly respected officer. Courageous and diligent in his approach to flying, Ron easily earned the respect and admiration of his crews and commanding officers alike. His positive outlook and commitment to excellence served as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of working alongside him. After two decades in the military, Captain Robbins traded in his USAF flight suit for a Northwest Airlines uniform, where he served until retirement.

Beyond his professional life, Ron was known for his uncanny ability to unite people in laughter, a generous and encouraging personality, his indomitable perseverance, and his love for seeing the world. Throughout his life, Ron’s passions included flying, golfing with his family and friends, travelling all over the world both for work and for leisure, and watching the Texas A&M Aggies saw varsity’s horns off. Ron’s parting words to his family were to stay positive and never give up. His enduring persistence carried him through the war in Vietnam, long absences from his family, a progressive neurological illness, and several types of cancer. Indeed, he never gave up, and even during his own battles, Ron touched innumerable lives with his humor, generosity, and grit. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, “Uncle” and friend.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents Jay (2001) and Ina (2004). He is survived by his wife December (Roseville, CA); his brother Robert Robbins (Valdosta, GA); his children Jay Robbins (Dallas, TX), Glynnis Farmwald (Mills River, NC) and Patrick Robbins (Muncie, IN); his grandchildren Ruby, Asher, Josephine, Ayla, Amos, Nora and Levi; and several cousins and step-family.

Ronald will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Although he has left this world, his legacy of generosity, humor, kindness, and perseverance will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. May he rest in peace, knowing that he made a profound impact on the lives of those around him.

A celebration of Ronald's life will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Mount Vernon Memorial Park, 8201 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks, CA 95628.