Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

A Celebration of Life in loving memory of Lela Mae Robinson

March 5, 1938 – October 19, 2023

Lela Mae Hutchinson Robinson was born on March 5, 1938, in Collinston, LA. She was the daughter of Levernia Williams McArthur and L.G. Hutchinson. Lela was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle, Ladell and Kenzie Johnson. Her formative years were spent growing up in the Oakland, CA area and Monroe, LA.

Lela was a 1956 graduate of Carroll High School in Monroe, LA, and continued her education at Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA, where she graduated with a B.S. in Business.

On May 12, 1963, Lela and Willie, her husband, were united in marriage, and their union lasted for 60 years. They were blessed with three children: Stanley Ray, Sharon Ladell, and Lisa Renee. Additionally, they were blessed with four grandchildren: Brandon Alexander, Jessica Raeshelle, Alexia Danyelle, and Kamryn Ladell. Lela enthusiastically participated in the educational endeavors of both her children and grandchildren.

Lela was the oldest of 13 siblings, which included Leroy McArthur (Ruth), Shirley McArthur Graves (Alonzo), Frank McArthur (Chrystal), Doris McArthur Howard (Jim), Eunice McArthur Tom (Harry), Brenda McArthur Puckett, Floyd McArthur, Stevie McArthur (Docha), Vincent McArthur (Hazel), and Mario McArthur (Sharon). Her brothers, Donald McArthur and Benjamin McArthur, preceded her in death.

Lela's commitment to her family extended to her marriage of 60 years, her dedication to her children and grandchildren, and her deep love for her siblings. She possessed a unique talent for preserving treasured moments with her camera, as evidenced by the photo albums found in every room of her home. Traveling was also one of her favorite pastimes, which allowed her to create even more beautiful memories.

For 42 years, Lela remained a faithful member of Brentwood Baptist Church in Houston, TX, where her unwavering faith and love for her church family were evident.

Lela leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Willie R. Robinson; children - Stanley R. Robinson (Angela), Sharon L. Burns (Eugene Jr), and Lisa R. Burns (Jimmy Jr.); and grandchildren - Brandon A. Robinson, Jessica R. Robinson, Alexia D. Burns, and Kamryn L. Burns.

She is also survived by her loving siblings and uncles, Melvin H. Robinson and Marvin Allen. In addition to her cherished family, Lela shared a deep and enduring friendship with Carroll Smith Davenport and her family.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the support and love from all family members and friends during this difficult time. Your presence and kind words have provided comfort and solace.

As we gather to say our final goodbyes, let us remember the love, warmth, and light that Lela brought into our lives. Her memory will forever be cherished, and her spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

Lela's services are Monday, October 20, 2023 at 11:30 AM at Sugar Land Mortuary. Visitation is Monday, October 30, 2023, 10:30 -11:30 AM.

Please join via live stream at 11:00 AM. Burial to follow at Houston National Cemetery.

Photo Lela Mae Robinson