Services for former Chief of Police Bill Robinson

Family, Friends, and Law Enforcement Officers gathered yesterday in Crescent Beach to honor Retired Chief of Police William Robinson; who died at his home on Sunday March 7, 2010 after a brave and courageous battle with cancer.

St Augustine Police Department Honor Guard members stood post at the casket at Crescent Beach Baptist Church.

Members of the St Augustine Police Department and numerous other agencies, their badges shrouded with black mourning bands, filled the front rows of the church during the ceremony. Afterwards, officers stood at attention — saluting as Chief Robinson’s flag-draped casket was carried from the church.

Graveside services included a 21 gun salute, Taps, performed by Lt. John Donlon, and the fading melody of the bagpipes playing “Amazing Grace”.

The flag covering the casket was ceremoniously folded and delivered by Chief Lueders to Robinson’s wife of 43 years; Michele Robinson.

The solemn ceremony was attended by family, friends, and law enforcement officers from near and far, who came to pay their last respects.

Robinson was appointed Chief of Police in 1991 and held that position until he retired in 2000. He earned his Master’s degree from University of North Florida in 1990 and was an adjunct professor for the University.

“Chief Robinson was a leader among his peers and brought the police department to the cutting edge of computer technology,” recalled current Police Chief Loran Lueders.

“Chief Robinson was in the vanguard in the innovation in law enforcement for his emphasis on education,” stated Commander Stephen Fricke, who served and protected the citizens of St Augustine with Chief Robinson for 26 years.

“Chief was an outstanding boss and a wonderful person. He is greatly loved and missed,” said Donna Thomas, his executive assistant for the 9 years he was Chief.

“It was an honor and privilege to work with and work for Chief Robinson. He brought the St Augustine Police Department to the forefront of technology and advanced the department years ahead of any other agency,” stated Sgt. Ann Lawton who worked with Chief Robinson for 25 years.