Robert Jefferson Brinson, 90, a long time resident of Jacksonville, Florida, went to be with the Lord on July 9, 2013, after a short illness. Mr. Brinson was born in Pearson, Georgia and grew up in Lakeland, Florida. After graduating from Lakeland High School, he attended South Georgia College and later received a Congressional appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Great Neck, New York. Upon graduation, he was selected for training at New London, Connecticut at the US Navy Submarine School, where he later served with distinction as an instructor during the height of World War II.
He also served as a trainer in San Diego, California and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii during the war and later at Mare Island Naval Base during the decommissioning of numerous submarines post war.
After the war, he attended the University of Florida, and received a Bachelors degree in Business Administration. He married the former Corinne Butler, and began a career in the retail sales business, serving as credit manager for Allied Stores and the May Company, in San Diego, New York, Miami, Tampa, and finally Jacksonville, Florida. His retail career was interrupted during the Korean War, where he again served as a submarine instructor in San Diego, California until the end of the war. He continued his service as a Naval Reserve Officer for 27 years, retiring at the rank of Commander.
After serving in the retail business, he began a new career in governmental service and later retired from civil service with the US Navy in Jacksonville, Florida as both a budget analyst and accountant for the Naval Air Rework Facility.
His civic service included President of Toastmasters where he was a member for over 30 years, President of the Twin Hills Civic Association, Elder Affairs Council of Florida, AARP, Submarine Veterans of World War II, and numerous other civic groups during his over 50 years in Jacksonville, Florida. He has served as an advisor for the Florida Legislature as well as the office of the Mayor of Jacksonville, Florida on issues concerning the elderly. He was a longtime member of the West Jacksonville Republican Club. He was an active member of Hyde Park Baptist Church.
Mr. Brinson is survived by his wife of 65 years, Corinne, and children, Bonnie McMillan (Tommy) of Thomasville, GA, Betty Ann Suggs (Charles) of Jacksonville, FL, Dr. Randy Brinson (Pamela) of Montgomery, AL , and Jonathan Brinson (Jacquie) of Jacksonville, FL; sister, Jeannette Brinson Anderson ( Richard) of Lakeland, FL; grandchildren, Amy McMillan Stalvey (Jim) of Thomasville, GA, Stacey Suggs Keprios (Kris) of Lakeland, FL, Christopher Brinson, of Mobile, AL, Brian Suggs (Jennifer) of Jacksonville, FL, Daniel Brinson of Valdosta, GA, Philip Brinson of Montgomery, AL, Keri McMillan Hopkins (Ben) of Cairo, GA, and Christy McMillan of Atlanta, GA, and 6 great grandchildren; and nephew Jeff Anderson (Carolyn) of Lakeland, FL.
Visitation will be held Friday, July 12 from 6 – 8 PM at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home 5753 Blanding Blvd. Funeral Service will be Saturday, July 13 at 11 AM at Hyde Park Baptist Church, with burial to follow at Jacksonville Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hyde Park Baptist Church, 2000 S. Lane Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32210
Leave a memory or a message of condolence at www.hardage-giddensblanding.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
July 16, 2013
Nancy & Dennis Mortimer
Betty and family - we are so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. Praying that your memories will bring you peace and smiles. God bless you all
In sympathy and friendship
July 13, 2013
Karen Gray-Harlow
Betty, so sorry about the passing of your Dad. I know he was a wonderful man. Even though our acquaintances were few over the years, he was part of our lives for many years. He was one of my mother's bosses at O&R/NARF and worked with my father and grandfather as well, hence many years of "extended family". More importantly was the kindness he showed to my family, visiting my father when he was ill and coming by to see my mom before she passed away and attending both of their funerals. I know this is a very sad time and I pray that God will comfort you all. I also thank God for one of his faithful soldiers. God Bless you all.
July 12, 2013
Our deepest condolences to the entire family our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. But praise God Mr. Brinson knew our Lord and Savior!! Roger West (Southern Methodist along time ago)
Mama sends her regards also. (Rosalie West)
July 12, 2013
Tammy Taylor
Mrs. Brinson and family, I am very sorry to hear of your loss I pray that God will give you strength and comfort in your time of grief. With Love Tammy Taylor (former caregiver)
July 12, 2013
Nick Nichols
To Corinne and Family,
On behalf of the Charleston Base SUBVETS and Swamp Fox Chapter SUBVETS WWII, I offer you our sincere condolences on Robert's passing. We grieve with you on the loss of your loved one. All SUBVETS and their families have your family in our thoughts and prayers. There is no expiration date on the back of our dolphins and Robert will always be remembered as a “Brother of the Phin”, a hero of the greatest generation, and a great Patriot.
CDR(SS) Robert Jefferson Brinson
US Navy Retired
Now on Eternal Patrol
Sailor Rest Your Oar
Your Shipmates Have The Watch
Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate
Charleston Base Submarine Veterans
Nick Nichols, Base Chaplain
July 12, 2013
The Kirkland's from Omaha, Nebraska send our deepest condolences in the loss of Bob. He was a great man, and a true American of which his family and country will sorely miss. Many fond memories of Bob and Corrine visiting our family in Rhode Island and Hawaii. From one sailor to another,'Fair winds and following seas'. From the Heartland of America, Butch, Norma, Patrick, and Sarah Kirkland
July 12, 2013
Our sincere condolences to the Brinson Family, you are in our prayers. Sydney Heggood and Family.
July 12, 2013
corinne and family ,we are so sorry for your loss.we pray god will comfort you. jerry and betty hale
July 12, 2013
Sandi Harkins
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Brinson. I've known him most of my life. I pray your precious memories will guide your hearts to peace. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandi Harkins
July 11, 2013
Dear Randy. We were all saddened here at the World Trade Centre Dublin to hear of your father's passing. Even though he "had a great innings" it is never easy to loose a loved one or family member. I am sure you all will have great memories of a lifetime to warm you hearts into the future. God bless. Greg O'Hanlon. WTCD.
Showing 1 - 10 of 10 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more