Bernice Robinson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Bernice L. (Reeve) Robinson passed away 9-3-2026 with her family at her side.

She was born 4-23-1950 in Bethesda, Maryland to Frank M and Doris J (Reynolds)Reeve. As the child of a Marine, she lived in Virginia, California and Hawaii. Early in life she knew she wanted to be a nurse when she tried to nurture an injured June bug using a matchbox for the hospital bed. She succeeded by earning her R.N from Mennonite Hospital School of Nursing in Bloomington, Ill in 1971. An avid student, She later earned her BSN from SMS in Springfield, MO and MSN from UKC KC, KS. 

As a nurse Bernice worked numerous positions at both Joplin hospitals as well as teaching at NEO in Miami OK. She met her future husband Mike Robinson at Normal Community High School in Normal Ilinois. They celebrated their 57th anniversary June 28, 2026. Lovers of travel, they explored the US and the world but were always happy to return home to Joplin where they planted deep roots.

More than nursing, Bernice was most proud of being Mom to daughter, Dawn of Joplin, son Travis (Stephanie) of Omaha, NB, Grandma to Hailey (Kaleb) McCoy of Joplin, Carter, Grant and Zachary of Omaha, Great Grandmother (Gigi) to Adalie, Ryland and Emmeline of Joplin. They all survive her. She loved her family at St. Paul's UMC where for 40 years she followed, led, sang &" facilitated", not taught, her adult Sunday School class.

Bernice is also survived by her siblings John (Sharon) Reeve, Jeffrey Reeve, Rebecca (Reeve) Holmes all of Joplin, brother Paul Reeve (Amanda) of Maroa, Illinois sister-in-law Jenni Reeve of Joplin and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life is planned for October 3, 2026 at St. Paul's Church in Joplin, Missouri at 11:00 a.m. The family invites friends out for a time of visitation prior at 10:00 a.m.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri.