Eleanor M. Robberson, age 82, died peacefully at her home on Sunday, January 2, 2022. Eleanor demonstrated grace, had a passion for horsemanship, and was an advocate in furthering the equine industry in Missouri. She is remembered as a loyal wife and loving mother.
On December 16, 1939, she was born in Riverside, CA, to Maurice Allen and Shirley Bethea Morgan. She spent her youth in San Antonio, Texas riding horses at Fort Sam Houston Airforce Base. She graduated high school at St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, where she excelled in every sport. After graduating from the University of Colorado – Boulder, she became an equestrian instructor at Stephens College in Columbia, MO. There she met her late husband, of 53 years, Dr. James A Robberson D.V.M., while he was attending Veterinary school at the University of Missouri. In 1966 they settled in Springfield and opened a veterinary practice. For the next 35 years, the Practice was successful due to her supporting role in marriage, family, and business. She managed the clinic as office manager and veterinarian assistant, showing compassion for patients and sharing practical knowledge with the clients, and always striving for the best outcome in each situation.
In addition to assisting with the Practice, she found time to volunteer and share her passion for horses with others. She was actively involved in coordinating the University of Missouri 4-H horsemanship program for Greene County throughout the 1970s–80s. She taught many how to ride hunt seat and was a founding member of the Southwest Missouri Hunter Jumper Association in 1978. In the early 90’s she spent many hours advocating to further equine knowledge and the equine industry throughout Missouri by serving on the Board of the Missouri Equine Council, now called Missouri Horse Council.
After years of service to the community, James and Eleanor retired to spend time and share their passion with their grandchildren. Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents and husband, James Allen Robberson. She is survived by her daughter Charlotte and husband Scott and their two children, Cory and Shannon. Daughter Lynn and husband Doug and their two children, Jessica and Jack. Sister-in-law Julia, a large family in Texas and many friends in southwest Missouri.
Her family and friends remember her beauty, patience, and ability to communicate with clarity and assertiveness while being humble in all situations.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life open house on Friday, January 14, 2022, from 3 – 5 pm at Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3506 North National Ave. Springfield, MO 65803. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations: Greene County Extension, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO 65807. Please indicate in the memo portion 4-H – Robberson Family or Southwest Missouri Hunter Jumper Association, P O Box 6215 Springfield, MO 65801, or a charity of your choice.
We want to thank Linda Weaver and all the caregivers who supported Eleanor at home.