James "Robbie" Robinson

James ‘Robbie’ Robinson of San Francisco CA passed away on Feb 05, 2025. James was born in Blacksburg VA on Mar 30, 1935. He is the son of Douglas and Mary Juanita Robinson. His two sisters, Betty Jo Prater and Bertha Crabtree, recently passed away and is survived by his brother, Douglas Robinson Jr, of Blacksburg VA. After his 1954 graduation from Blacksburg High School, James joined the US Air Force. Here is where he became known as Robbie, a name he used the rest of his life. Robbie moved to San Francisco following his release from service in 1957. Robbie resided on 21st Street for over 40 years, and spent his last years at Ivy Park Cathedral Hill, surrounded by friends and the wonderful Ivy Park team. Robbie was the consummate story teller, and enjoyed sharing his lifetime of experiences with his friends and customers. He was active in the gay community and local politics for years. He bartended at the Silver Dollar, the Hideaway, and the Rendezvous, among others. He was a founding member of the Tavern Guild, one of the earliest gay organizations in SF. In 1970 Robbie left bartending to become a barber at The Viking barbershop. He bought The Viking in 1980, becoming one of SF’s early gay business owners. Robbie was a witness, a hard working foot soldier and an eager historian of the San Francisco gay community’s evolution from suffering police harassment, organizing HIV/AIDS services, to becoming an influential voice in SF government and politics. There will be a graveside service on Mar 8 at 11 am at Westview Cemetery on Roanoke Street, Blacksburg. Robbie will be laid to rest next to his mother, who he loved dearly.