Gail Robinson

Lillian Gail (Wilson) Smithson Robinson was born on November 13, 1939, to Edmond and Lillian (Burke) Wilson in Helena, Arkansas. Gail passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. 

Gail graduated from Helena’s Central High School in 1957 and spent the following year at the University of Arkansas before marrying her high school sweetheart. She enjoyed her years as a homemaker and stay-at-home mom to her sons, Todd and Jay. She especially loved supporting their school and church activities, working with the school's PTA, representing as a class mom, and playing the occasional game of bridge with her friends. Gail will be remembered for her gentle, southern demeanor and charm. 

She transitioned to the workforce in 1980 as a customer service representative for the First National Bank of Helena. This role suited her well, as she utilized her gift to make people feel special. In fact, bank customers would often endure a longer wait time just to interact with Gail. In 1989, she moved to central Arkansas and worked until her retirement with an Internal Medicine Group in Little Rock. As the front office manager, she interacted with physicians, employees, patients, family members, and vendors. She was beloved by all. Patients often brought her treats for her exceptional care.

Gail married Danny during her golden years and embarked on numerous adventures together. They especially loved gardening around their retirement home in Hot Springs Village. Gail was passionate about the churches she attended, serving as an elder in the First Presbyterian Church of Helena, and most recently as a member of Balboa Baptist Church in the Village, where she made many friends. She enjoyed Sunday School and her role on the church decorating committee. Her passion for decorating was evident in many aspects throughout her life. 

Her most cherished role in life was being a mother and grandmother. Gail often spoke to her belief that she was born for these roles and was so proud of all her boys. She adored her two sons and four grandsons and was smitten with her three great-granddaughters.

Gail joins those who predeceased her, her parents, her grandparents, her brother, Ed Wilson, her infant son, Burke Smithson, and her beloved cousin, Betty James.

She is survived by her husband, Danny Robinson, and her children and stepchildren Todd Smithson (Cecile), Jay Smithson (Jan), Chris Robinson (Judy), and Dana Harrison (Brad). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Steven Smithson, Scott Smithson (Claire), Graham Smithson, Grant Smithson, and Atlas Harrison, and her great-grandchildren, Posey Smithson, Lavy Smithson, and Penny Smithson, and her cousin Linda Halbrook Smith who served as a sisterly figure in her life. Additionally, Gail leaves behind many extended family members who will miss her greatly. 

A celebration of Gail’s life is planned for Saturday, June 1st at 11:00 am at Balboa Baptist Church, in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation in Gail’s memory be made to the following: Balboa Baptist Church, 415 Ponce De Leon Drive, Hot Springs Village, AR  71909.