Zella Robbins

Zella Robbins, age 93, of Middlesboro, KY, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Middlesboro Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility, Middlesboro, KY. She was born April 12, 1933, the daughter of the late James Thomas Turner and LeOda Hicks Turner.

Zella was a devoted wife, mother, and friend whose life was defined by her unwavering love for her family and community. For 38 years, she brought joy and confidence to many as a dedicated beautician at Juanita’s Beauty Salon in Middlesboro, Kentucky. A woman of faith and service, Zella was a member of Meldrum Baptist Church and a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over twenty years.

Known for her compassionate heart, Zella was always there for anyone in need, always staying steadfastly by her family's side during hard times. She found great joy in life's simple pleasures, including long walks, cooking beautiful meals for family gatherings, and watching butterflies, which were her absolute favorite. Zella loved her family with all her heart, leaving behind a legacy of kindness that will never be forgotten.

In addition to her parents, Zella was preceded in death by her husband, John Oliver Robbins who passed away May 7, 2000; her son, James Daniel Turner; and her sisters, Alice Whitaker of Smyrna, GA and Lucy V. Robbins of Middlesboro, KY.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Dena Robbins (Angela King) of Middlesboro, KY; sister, Ruby Whitaker of Smyrna, GA; nieces, Gail (Terry) Vinyard of Menlo, GA and Karen Whitaker of Smyrna, GA; nephews, Mike (Debi) Whitaker of Smyrna, GA and Rick (Jennifer) Whitaker of GA; and a host of great nieces and nephews, other family and friends.

The family of Zella Robbins will receive friends on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Reverend Richard Barnett presiding. Music will be provided by Quentin Williams and Brian Robbins.

At the conclusion of the funeral service, family and friends will travel in procession to Turner Cemetery #3 (Colmar community), Middlesboro, KY, where graveside services will be held.

Pallbearers will be Joe Holder, Mike Whitaker, Quentin Williams and William (Willie) Muncy. Honorary pallbearer will be Bobby Robbins.

In remembering Zella Robbins, we reflect on a life illuminated by kindness, steadfast faith, and an unwavering commitment to family and community, qualities that endure beyond the passage of time and continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. May she rest eternally in the peace and love of our Lord.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional staff at the Middlesboro Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility, Destiny Hopkins and Ashley Higgins for the extraordinary compassion and care they provided.

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Zella Robbins are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.