Jane Robinson believed in showing up—for her family, her students, her teammates, her church, and her community. She lived every day with a steady purpose rooted in love, service, and joy. She was a teacher in and out of the classroom, shaping lives with grace, kindness, and a strong sense of what mattered most: faith, family, and doing right by others.

Mary "Jane" Robinson (Denney) of Milan, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, in Jackson, Tennessee, with her family by her side. She was 75.

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, coach, and friend, Jane filled every corner of her life with love, loyalty, and care. Whether through a warm hug, a perfectly timed birthday card, or the way she nurtured every relationship, she had a gift for making people feel seen and remembered.

Jane was born on May 22, 1950, to Mary and Jack Denney and raised in a home where love and family bonds ran deep. She was the oldest of three sisters, Carol Blair and Jackie Yarmola. Her love of teaching took root early—as a caring big sister and natural mentor to her younger siblings. She made her mark as an athlete—an All-State basketball star who helped lead her high school team to the Tennessee state tournament in 1968. That same fire and focus would carry through everything she touched.

In 1970, she married the love of her life, Mike Robinson. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion and joy, raising two children, Alan and Carey, who were the heart of her world.

Jane earned her degree in education from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and went on to teach kindergarten for over 30 years. She inspired countless students across generations with a steady blend of love, toughness, and fairness. Her classroom was more than a place of learning—it was a space where children were known, challenged, and cared for. Jane didn't shy away from doing what was right, even when it meant going against the grain. She spoke up when it mattered, always choosing integrity over ease. From 1988 to 1993, she also coached the Milan Middle School girls' basketball team, guiding her players with the same grace and grit she brought to every part of her life.

Music and faith were always close to Jane's heart. She loved to sing—on Sunday mornings in church, while driving in the car, or just around the house. She was a longtime member of Milan Cumberland Presbyterian Church and Greenfield First Presbyterian, where her voice and spirit filled the pews.

Jane was deeply creative, with a gift for remembering the little things—birthdays, milestones, and quiet moments that mattered. She poured thoughtful care into every handwritten note, gift, and gesture, making each one feel personal and deeply considered. She had a rare ability to make everyone feel truly seen without ever showing favoritism—every student, friend, and family member felt they held a special place in her heart. Her notes became small treasures, her presence and phone calls a constant comfort. She was a loyal fan of UT women's basketball, a Braves enthusiast, and a proud, delighted grandmother to Oliver, Evelyn, Madelyn, and Vivian.

She is survived by her husband, Mike; her son, Alan Robinson (JJ); her daughter, Carey Elzey (Jared); her sisters, Carol Blair and Jackie Yarmola; and her four grandchildren, Oliver, Evelyn, Madelyn, and Vivian. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Jack Denney.

Her legacy is stitched into every life she touched. Jane Robinson loved deeply, lived kindly, and gave the world her whole heart.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 2 PM at Bodkin Funeral Home with burial to follow in the Oakwood Cemetery in Milan.  Visitation with the family will be held on Saturday from 12 - 2 PM a the funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to:

First Presbyterian Church

Attn: Church/Accessibility Fund

P O Box 94

Greenfield, TN 38230

Bodkin Funeral Home is honored to serve the life and family of Jane Robinson.

Bodkin Funeral Home

731-686-3111