Callie Lou Robinson

Callie Lou Robinson was born Thursday, April 21, 1927 to Fred and Elnora Fellows in Washington, Arkansas.  She was the oldest of six children. All preceded her in death.  She went to be with the Lord May 16, 2020.  Callie came to Kansas City at an early stage and attended Lincoln High School.  Callie married Walter Charles Fletcher. From this union one daughter was born Charlesetta.  She later married Aree Robinson in 1992.

Callie gave her life to Christ at an early age.  She was a member of Jamison Temple AME church, and Friendship Baptist Church. She later joined her husband at Palestine Missionary Baptist Church. She was active with ladies Missionary group.

Callie worked at Drummond Cleaners for years.  Callie enrolled in the Eileen Jefferson Cosmetology School to become a beautician. She worked in the day and serviced clients’ hair in the evening   Callie always had a quest for knowledge and furthering her education.  She graduated from Central Technical School as the only woman in her class

Callie was hired by Bendix Corporation in 1968 as an Electrical Performance Inspection being the first African American and the only woman to hold this position.  During her career at Bendix she earned recognition as being a trailblazer. 

When Callie retired in July 1994, her department honored her with a plaque with the following inscription:  “To Callie Robinson; For being one of the first woman and the first African American Woman to be hired as an Electrical Performance inspector, thereby paving the way for other women wanting to make a career in the field of electronics”.  After retirement, in recognition of Women’s History Month, Honeywell formerly know as Bendix spotlighted her as a woman who achieved significant success in her career and a true pioneer in her own right 

Throughout the years she blessed her family with her famous sweet potatoes at every family gathering. Callie was affectionately known as “Mama Callie” to her grandchildren and “Miss Callie” to others. Callie will be remembered for her strong sense of independency and work ethic.  She truly enjoyed gardening and traveling with family. In early years she traveled with her Aunt and cousins to California and Las Vegas.  After marrying Aree, they went on many cruises and traveled visiting relatives. 

She leaves to cherish her memory, one daughter Charlesetta Smith (Bill) of the city; two, grandchildren Teresa Smith Triplett (Gerald), and William G. Smith (Tiffani); three great grandchildren, Marvon Smith, Krystal and Christian Triplett.  Many stepchildren, step grandchildren, step great grandchildren and a host of friends and relatives.  Callie will truly be missed by her family but happy to be with her family and friends waiting on her on Heaven.  God bless you and job well done.

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