Barbara Ann (Pinky) Robinson Francis, May 9, 1954 – December 30, 2025. Barbara Ann Robinson was born on May 9th, 1954 at Oak Ridge Hospital to Clara Mae (Gaines) Robinson and Gene Allen Robinson. Barbara left this world peacefully on December 30th after a lengthy illness at Park West Hospital. Barbara was a member of Sweetwater Community Bible Church and she attended Mt. Bethel Church in Sweetwater periodically as well. She enjoyed watching football, she loved the Tennessee Titans, and she was an avid fan of Sweetwater football throughout the years. She loved to sit outside and wave to her friends and neighbors as they would drive by.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Clara Mae (Gaines) Robinson, Gene Allen Robinson, her beloved husband, Howard Oscar (John) Francis, beautiful daughter, Cynthia Vanessa (Sissy) Francis, brothers, Gene Allen Robinson, Jr., Samuel Ray (Bo) and Lewis Robinson.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory, son Chris Francis and wife, Vanessa of Philadelphia, a very special grandson, whom she adored, Damien McClendon and wife, Nicole of Sweetwater, Sister, Mary Jackson, grandson Cameron Myers, of Sweetwater, granddaughters Khalea Francis, of Sweetwater, and Asada McClendon, of Loudon, five great-grandchildren, several beloved nieces and nephews and a host of cousins who adored her.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 1 to 2 PM, with the funeral service to follow at 2 PM in Kyker’s Chapel with Rev. Charles Yancy and Pastor Lydia Benton, and Rev. Burchon Walker officiating. Internment to follow in the Sweetwater Memorial Park.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the love, prayers and kindness extended to them during this difficult time.