Emerson Dale “Sonny” Robbins, 94, of New Castle passed away Saturday, September 24, 2022 at Glen Oaks Health Campus in New Castle. He was born January 23, 1928 in New Castle, Indiana, a son of the late Earl B. Robbins and Gladys (Griner) Robbins Jordan.
A 1946 graduate of New Castle High School, Sonny was a Sgt and radar mechanic in the United States Air Force. At a young age, Sonny had a newspaper route and at the age of 13 started working at J.C. Penney until joining the military. After leaving the military, Sonny worked at Goodwin Brothers as a technician, service manager and shop foreman, retiring following more than 50 years of service. He was a Boy Scout leader, an active member of the American Legion Honor Guard and was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church
Sonny had a passion for racing and enjoyed racing outboard motorboats and motorcycles. He especially enjoyed participating in racing motorcycles and cars with his son and grandson. Sonny was the crew chief and worked on the cars and motorcycles for several years.
Survivors include his wife of almost 72, years Judith Ann Shepherd Robbins; Kirk R. (Kathy) Robbins and Jean S. Robbins; grandchildren, Kyle (Caity) Robbins, Kaylee (Thomas) Oakes; and great grandchildren, Mason Robbins and Nora and Ella Oakes; step sisters, Earlita Keaton and Rita Maxwell.
In addition to his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by a daughter, Teresa “Terry” Lee Robbins.
Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 30, 2022 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle with Pastor Jerry Ingalls officiating. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 pm. Thursday at the funeral home. Military honors will be conducted by contingents from the US Air Force and American Legion Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be given to the Henry County Cancer Society, Henry County Community Foundation, P.O. Box 6006, New Castle, Indiana 47362. You may express condolences or share a memory of Sonny at www.hinsey-brown.com.