Theresa “Reather” Robinson was born on April 13, 1939, in Slaughter, Louisiana, to her beloved

mother, Virginia Chapman. She was called home to be with the Lord on July 31, 2025,

surrounded by her loving family. Reather lived a beautiful life rooted in love, resilience, and

unwavering faith.

A lifelong resident of Baton Rouge, she was a pillar in her community known not only for her

strength, wisdom, and humor but for her nurturing spirit and genuine heart. She was a retired

custodian for East Baton Rouge Library and a caregiver for Gulf Coast Social Service in which

she impacted many lives throughout her career. Reather was a born-again believer and a faithful,

dedicated member of Living Faith Christian Center. She served under the leadership of Bishop

Raymond Johnson for 37 years, a true testament to her vibrant spirit and authenticity. On May

25, 2014, she received her Associates Degree of Biblical Studies from Living Faith Christian

Center School of Ministry. As a breast cancer survivor, she founded Advocates for Christ Against

Cancer, a ministry in which she uplifted others walking through their own health battles.

Theresa’s faith was a guiding light—she prayed fervently, loved deeply, and stood strong in the

face of adversity. Her mornings started early, praying earnestly for everyone on her heart from

her lips to God’s ear. She called each loved one by name as she lifted them up to God. Her prayer

life was extensive.

Reather was the proud mother of six children—Henry Sanford, Michael Sanford, Virginia

“Cookie” Franklin (William), Brenda Wright, Denise Thornton (Calvin), and Mark Robertson.

Her joy multiplied through her grandchildren Nikita, Yasmene “Meme” (Terry Jr. “TJ”), Brittany,

Marleighia, Jadon, and Jaylin; and her great-grandchildren Garryn, Da’Leighia, Treveon, and

Tyler. Her family was her pride and joy and her love for them is endless.

Reather lived a life of faith, warmth, and unwavering love. She could be found outside enjoying

nature, fishing, chatting with strangers who soon became friends, or cooking up something

unforgettable in her kitchen. Her homemade cornbread dressing, biscuits, sweet potato and

buttermilk pies were her specialties. She loved watching her stories, her favorite players, and her

game shows. She loved to travel, loved her grandkids more, and found joy in every moment she

spent with those she loved.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her daughters, grandchildren, her uncle—Oscar Matthews Sr.,

sisters—Luella Washington, and Annie Simmons (Charles); brother—Isaiah Sr. “Ike”; Sister in

law—Bertha Chapman, nieces—Natasha and Cora; nephews—John Jr., Isaiah Jr., Isaac, Jeffrey,

Christopher; great nieces—Fallon (Paul), Shatara, Arbreion ”Bre,” great nephew Gregory Jr.,

extended family and dear friends, including Shirley Sims her friend of 47+ years.

She was preceded in death by her parents Virginia and Joseph Chapman; her sons Henry,

Michael, and Mark; her brother John (Bertha); niece Yolanda; nephew Eric; lifelong friend

Donald Ray Scott; her partner in crime Myrna Franklin; and her beloved pets, Gizmo and Paris.

We honor her life, her legacy, and the beautiful soul that we were blessed to experience.