Leon 'Robbie' Edward Robertson

Leon 'Robbie' Edward Robertson, age 86, of D'Iberville, MS, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, in Ocean Springs, MS.  He was born on February 6, 1938, in Phenix City, Alabama, to Leon and Lucille Robertson. 

He served in the US Marine Corps from 1956-1958, where he played the trombone in the US Marine Band.  During this time, he was assigned to play at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.  This is where he met his first love Irene Bruce, a young Scottish girl who later emigrated from Scotland to the United States where they were soon married.  Irene helped Leon discover his Scottish ancestry which he proudly celebrated throughout his life.  

He later joined the US Air Force, stationed in Columbus, MS, Bermuda, Italy, Vietnam and Biloxi, MS, to name a few, until retiring as a Master Sergeant from Little Rock AFB.

Robbie's military service lasted more than two decades.  He loved retelling stories of his time in the service.  He often recalled stories of riding bicycles with Irene to picnic on the tiny island of Bermuda.  Also, he loved to recount stories of his Italian neighbor beckoning him over to enjoy a bottle of wine on his outdoor table in the setting Italian sun.  

Robbie was a connector, a man that enjoyed befriending many and his lifelong friendships were built from those connections.  He was enormously proud of and enjoyed spending time with his sons, Bruce and his family and Stuart and his family of friends that each adored Robbie.  

He was a lifelong animal lover and he and Irene opened a popular pet shop in Biloxi call Pet Safari.  Though they owned many beloved pets over the years his favorite was a Skye Terrier names Delius.

Robbie married Elva O'Brian Robertson, in 2020, in a beautiful ceremony attended by family and friends.  They enjoyed traveling and attended many events together with their family, friends and fellow parishioners from St. John Episcopal Church in Ocean Springs. 

 Leon was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.  He will be remembered with loving fondness by the neighbors all over the world with whom he shared a table.

Robbie taught many lessons, be kind, be patient, be generous with your love and attention, be willing to laugh uproariously, be ready to burst out in song - don't worry others WILL join in to both.  Enjoy your favorite treats: whether it is time with those you love, Scottie shaped shortbread cookies, or a fine scotch on the rocks enjoy them unapologetically - they are truly the things that make life worth living.   

Robbie lived a life full of dedication and commitment to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Elva O'Brian Robertson, with whom he shared 5 years of joy and companionship. He was the proud father of two sons, Bruce (Suzanne) Robertson of Franklin, TN and Stuart Robertson of Ocean Springs, demonstrating a steadfast support in their lives. also embraced his role as a stepfather to Margaret (Steve) Stafford, imparting wisdom and affection.

As a grandfather, he took in the lives of his grandchildren: Emma (Josh) Robison, Duncan (Sally) Robertson, along with his step-grandchildren, Cade Rouse, Elva Gonzalez, and Mallie Rouse. Leon also a proud great-grandfather to Marshall W. Robison, who brought immense joy.

In addition to his family, Robbie is survived by his sister, Martha Ann Waldrop, and two nephews, Vern Waldrop and Bill Robertson, reminding us of the bonds that continue even as we mourn.

He was preceded in death his first wife, Irene Robertson, who shaped the early years of his life. Robbie was also welcomed into eternity by his loving parents Leon and Lucille Robertson, as well as his brothers, Jack John, Claude and Billy Robertson. He knew the loss of his stepson, James H. Rouse III, deeply.

Robbie will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the laughter he shared with those around him. His presence will be sorely missed but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.

A memorial gathering will be held on February 10, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM at St. John's Episcopal Church, located at 705 Rayburn Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564. This will be followed by an inurnment at Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave, Biloxi, MS 39531, at 12:30 PM. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Leon's life and legacy as they come together to honor his memory.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, West Jackson County, is proud to be serving the Robertson family. Please sign the online guestbook, and share memories & photos at www.riemannfamily.com