Clara Robinson

In Loving Memory of Clara Robinson

Clara Robinson, age 85, of Knoxville, Tennessee, peacefully entered eternal rest on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her daughter, granddaughter, sister, and dear friends.

Clara was born on August 18, 1940, in Stringtown, Mississippi, to the late Ruth Ann and Eddie Manuel. Following the passing of her mother, her devoted father lovingly relocated Clara and her sister, Mary Manuel, to Greenville, Mississippi, where they were raised among his family. Believing Greenville would provide his daughters with greater educational opportunities, he worked tirelessly to ensure they had a bright future.

Clara and Mary attended Coleman High School, where they were active members of the Glee Club and sang as alto vocalists in the Coleman High School Choir. Their beautiful a cappella harmonies became a treasured gift to family and friends, especially during visits back to Stringtown, where loved ones eagerly gathered to hear the sisters sing. Music remained a cherished part of Clara's life and reflected the joy she carried in her heart.

After graduating from high school, Clara married the love of her life, Candosey Robinson. Together they built a family and were blessed with three children: Gail, Candosey Jr., and James.

Clara dedicated her life to serving others. She began her career at General Hospital in Greenville, Mississippi, working in dietary services before pursuing her calling in healthcare. Through perseverance and compassion, she became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), providing devoted care to countless patients at Mary Thompson Hospital and later at Provident Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. Her gentle spirit, kind heart, and willingness to help others made a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Later, Clara made Knoxville, Tennessee, her home, where she joined her beloved sister Mary in operating the family business, Mary's Hot Tamales. Following Mary's passing, Clara proudly carried on the business, preserving not only a family tradition but also the legacy her sister worked so hard to build. She took great pride in serving her community with the same love and dedication she showed her family.

Known affectionately to family and friends as "Granny," Clara found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. She was a devoted mother, an adoring grandmother and great-grandmother, a beloved sister, aunt, and faithful friend. Granny had a warm heart, a gentle spirit, and a nurturing nature that made everyone feel welcome. Whether sharing a meal, offering words of encouragement, or simply opening her home to others, she loved unconditionally and gave generously. Her quiet strength, unwavering faith, and compassionate spirit touched countless lives and will remain a lasting inspiration to all who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Candosey Robinson; her son, Candosey Robinson Jr.; her parents, Ruth Ann and Eddie Manuel; and her cherished sister, Mary Manuel.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving daughter, Gail Rolling (Jim); her son, James Robinson (Lynn); her granddaughters, Marita Robinson (Emanuel) and Natasha Berry (Brandon); and her treasured great-grandchildren, Tyvonne, Mikayla, Michael, Emiya, William, and Jayden.

She is also survived by her siblings: Eddie Manuel Jr. (Bernadine) of Westlake, Louisiana; Shirley Tenner of Natchez, Mississippi; Eddye Green (Jerrold), Patrick Manuel, Joyce Manuel, and Deloris Collins, all of Warner Robins, Georgia; Gloria Marshall (Oscar) of Knoxville, Tennessee; Floyd Manuel (Debra) and Rosa Wilson, both of Porter, Texas; her stepmother, Juanita Wade of Warner Robins, Georgia; her beloved aunt, Pearlie Fowler of Greenville, Mississippi; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Though our hearts are saddened by the loss of our beloved Granny, we rejoice in knowing that she is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Her life was a beautiful example of love, perseverance, faith, and selfless service. The memories she created, the wisdom she shared, and the unconditional love she gave will forever live in the hearts of her family and friends. Granny's legacy will continue for generations to come, and she will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

2 Timothy 4:7–8 (KJV)

The family will receive friends from 12:00pm to 1:00pm on Friday, July 3. 2026 at Jarnigan & Son Chapel, located at 2823 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37914 with a service to immediately follow. 

Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary.