Obituary of Joseph Robertson

Joseph Robertson was born on May 24, 1934, the 2nd of 5 children to Fleming Robertson and Mary Ella West In Appomattox, Virginia. Joseph and his siblings were raised most of their young lives by their father and grandmother Jannie West, after their mother died at a young age. He and his siblings attended local schools but as many young people of his generation, he left school to begin working and contributing to their household. It is said that grit, which is defined as "firmness of character, indomitable spirit", is a greater predictor of success than other variables. At his very core, Joseph radiated grit. It propelled him into a lifetime of service-to his country, city, and family. He proudly enlisted and served in the United States Air Force. While he enjoyed his service to his country during his years in the Air Force, he decided to not re-enlist, was honorably discharged in 1959 and returned to the family that had migrated to Philadelphia. After leaving the Air Force, Joseph met and married the love of his life, Juliette Frazier in 1960 and all at once joyfully took on the role of husband to Juliette, and father to young Kenneth as the family began to take shape in Brooklyn, NY. The family expanded with the births of Eric & Nicole and they were one of the first Black families to integrate Laurelton when he and Juliette became proud homeowners. His service to the City of New York was initiated through the Metropolitan Transportation Authority-NY City Transit. He advanced to Motorman where he proudly remained until his retirement in 1988, with over 25 years of service. If you ever had the opportunity to hear one of his stories regarding NY city's subway system, you were sure to learn something that you didn't know about the city, and/or gain a few laughs. Joseph's service to his family and community continued throughout his retirement as he assisted many neighbors, promoted benevolence, and encouraged his children and grandchildren to pursue higher education, among other supports that he freely gave. The measure of a man is how successful they are at who they are supposed to be. Whatever title you called him by Husband, Pops, brother, uncle, cousin, neighbor, colleague, or friend-he was an incredible man who shaped many lives. On April 19, 2019, the Lord said "Well Done" and called Joseph home after battling several illnesses. He leaves to carry on his legacy his wife of 59 years Juliette, sons Kenneth and Eric, daughter Nicole and son- in-law Darrin, 2 sisters Bertha Jones and Nellie Robertson, his grandsons Jamel, Jason, James, Joshua, Dante, Christian, granddaughters Norah and Mia, great grandson Mikai, many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. We know that you grew weary Pops so it was ok for you to leave. We will be fine, as you leave us with the best of yourself. We love you.