Ivory Robinson

January 12, 2025, Ivory Robinson, 70, of Lubbock, TX, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and close friends. Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, January 18th, 2025, at 2 pm at Lyons Chapel Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Peaceful Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Griffin Mortuary. Visitations will be held Friday, January 17th, 2025, from 4pm to 6pm at Griffin Mortuary. Ivory Robinson was born on January 15th 1954, to Ira Smith and Verlina Gibbs in Lubbock, TX. 

Ivory Robinson was a product of the Lubbock Independent School District and a proud graduate of Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School in 1973. Her high school years were filled with accomplishments that reflected her drive, charisma, and multifaceted talents. As a cheerleader, Ivory brought energy and spirit to every game. She twice claimed victory in the school spelling bee, showcasing her sharp intellect. On the debate team she passionately articulated her ideas. She was voted “Best Dressed” for three consecutive years, a testament to her impeccable style and grace. Pushing her physical limits and setting an example for her peers, Ivory also excelled in track. A trailblazer even in the domestic arts, Ivory excelled in her homemaking class, where she and her classmates designed and created their own dresses. Her time at Dunbar High School was a vibrant chapter that left an indelible mark on the school community and shaped the dynamic woman she would become.

Ivory Robinson shared a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories with her devoted husband, Nathaniel Robinson. Together, they built a strong and loving family, welcoming four beautiful children: Eu’Lina Smith, Na’Lesia Smith, Nathaniel Robinson II, and Khandace Robinson, who preceded her in death. Her unwavering guidance and boundless encouragement shaped her children into reflections of her grace and strength. She was more than a mother—she was their greatest champion, confidante, and source of unwavering support. The joy and dedication she brought to her roles as a wife and mother will remain a cherished cornerstone of her family’s story.

Ivory was a hardworking and dedicated woman whose career journey showcased her remarkable versatility and passion for serving others. As a teller at Bank of the West and Lubbock National Bank in Lubbock, TX, her warm smile and attention to detail left a lasting impression on both customers and colleagues. Her desire to make a difference in her community led her to join Legal Aid as a legal secretary, where she provided critical support to those seeking justice and fairness. Her strong work ethic later brought her to Citibus, where she contributed to keeping Lubbock moving and thriving. In 1985, Ivory and Nathaniel embarked on a new chapter, moving to Amarillo for work opportunities. Nathaniel joined NCR (Pantex), while Ivory further expanded her skills by graduating from Amarillo College of Hairdressing in 1988 with a degree in cosmetology. With an entrepreneurial spirit and a heart for making people feel beautiful, she established her own beauty shop, Nouveau U, and signature slogan: “If your hair is not becoming to you, you should be coming to me.” She poured her creativity and dedication into Nouveau U, touching countless lives through her craft and creating an atmosphere where all of her clients felt valued and confident.

She thrived in the heart of her family, sharing in every milestone and celebrating the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. Whether it was a graduation, a birthday, or a small victory, she was there, making everyone feel cherished. More than anything, she believed in being present, embracing whatever her children and grandchildren were passionate about. If they were excited about it, so was she, cheering them on from the sidelines or diving in right alongside them.

Her vibrant presence lit up every room she entered. A true down home southern culinarian, she delighted in preparing soul food dishes that brought family and friends together. Her turkey and dressing, greens, and candied yams were legendary, filling hearts and bellies with warmth and love. Cooking wasn’t just a passion; it was her way of nurturing those she cared for. 

She built a legacy of friendship that spanned generations. It was not uncommon to see her being the life of the party with her quick wit and an endless supply of jokes. She had a knack for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary celebrations, effortlessly bringing people together especially if it involved a game of spades or the slamming of dominoes. A lover of adventure, she often tried her luck at the slot machines and ventured to Las Vegas a time or two.

Ivory’s attendance at class reunions and other gatherings was a testament to the joy she found in fellowship. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted churchgoer, she served as an usher at Lyons Chapel and First Progressive. With a warm smile and a kind heart, she greeted church members like family. She also attended Church of the Nations. 

Ivory’s legacy is a reminder of the beauty in simply being together and making life a celebration.

Ivory Robinson is preceded in death by her husband Nathaniel Robinson, parents Ira Smith and Verlina Carroll (Roosevelt Carroll), daughter Khandace Robinson, sister Ulinda Lawson, brother Barnett Smith, and niece Danyelle Lawson-Freeman. 

 She is survived by two daughters, Eu’Lina Smith and Na’Lesia Smith, one son Nathaniel Robinson II. She is also survived by 4 grandchildren, Yan’Kil Barrow, Kirstee Petersen, K’Tdriana Tallant, Javion Hayes and 4 great grandchildren, Carsten Davis, Lennox Johnson, Leilani Hayes, Kaysen Johnson, a special friend Henry Ruth, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.