Elmira Victoria Kirkland Cotton Robinson was born on Monday, February 1, 1926 to Horace and Elizabeth "Lizzie" (Calhoun) Kirkland in Blackshear, GA. She was the fifth born child of eight children, which included, Harvey, James, Ida, Floyd, William, Alice and Grady. In 1937, The Kirkland family relocated to Palatka, Florida. In 1944, Elmira was united in marriage to Buck Lester Cotton and they became the proud parents of a son and daughter, David Lester Cotton and Elnora Elizabeth Cotton. After his demise in 1971, she subsequently united in marriage to Nathaniel Robinson, a marriage that lasted until his transition.

Church Affiliations:
Since becoming a Palatka resident in 1937, the Kirkland family attended Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend P. J. Smith. Elmira became a member of Greater Shiloh at an early age and remained faithful for nearly 80 years. Over the years, she served in numerous ministries, including the Junior Choir, Adult Choir, Usher Board #2, and as Deaconess Board President.

Education:
Elmira was educated in the Putnam County School District and was a graduate of Central Academy High School. She continued her educational pursuit by enrolling in the Vocational Institute's Nursing program.

Career:
Elmira was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Putnam Memorial Hospital and Holly Hill Nursing Home. She had also been a custodial employee at St. Johns River Junior College. She was proud to serve as a "Grandparent" in the program at William D. Moseley Elementary School.
Elmira was a longtime, successful businesswoman. Together with her husband, Nathaniel "Red" Robinson, they co-owned and operated "Red's TV Service" in Palatka for many years.
Elmira was an active and very proud member of the Democratic Executive Committee of Putnam County. Present at nearly every meeting, she was always willing to go above and beyond by providing assistance during voting drives. She was instrumental in assisting many Putnam County residents become registered voters and would even drive them to the polls. She was also a longtime member of the Barragan Tri-County Senior's Organization and the Putnam County Chapter of N.A.A.C.P.

Accomplishments:
Elmira was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for her efforts in fighting against hatred and intolerance in America. Her name was added to the Wall of Tolerance in Montgomery, Alabama, providing inspiration for others who share in this fight.
Elmira was recognized by United States President Barack Obama's administration for her efforts in voter's registration in Putnam County. When asked by the Obama administration to send them one of her favorite recipes, she selected her chocolate cake recipe, (subsequently added to the Official White House Cookbook), which became one of numerous options on the menu of prepared culinary desserts utilized by the Obama administration and other dignitaries dining at the White House.
Elmira Victoria Kirkland Cotton Robinson entered the sunset of life at 7:40 p.m., on Monday, September 18, 2017 at Shands at University of Florida Medical Center, Gainesville, FL.

Cherished & Treasured Family:
Her Legacy of love is shared by her beloved son, David (Claudine) Cotton,Riviera Beach, FL; devoted daughter, Elnora (Kenneth, Sr.) James, Palatka; grandchildren, Charles (Odilia) Puryear, Jr., Patrick Cotton, Byron (Korin) Cotton, Cherise (Queston "Tate") Hardy, Jennifer (Terry) Thompson, Kenneth James, Jr., Townsend (Connie) Harris; "like a grandson", Tony Brayboy; great-grandchildren, Courtney, Devante, Charles III, Christopher, Sacha, Sierra, Cortez, Jaela, Kian, Tyler, Jamia, Daisy, Maria, Karen, Ta'lyr; great-great grandchildren, Devante Jr., Kevin, Riley; favorite brother-in-law, Sylvester Johnson, goddaughter, Sharon Betts; and a host of nieces and nephews, including special nieces and nephew, Bernice Dotson, Sylvia Madison, Willie Bernard Williams; numerous special friends including, Thelma Whitfield, Martha Nichols, and Katherine Williams.