Mrs. Marie Ellison Robbins Tarver died Nov. 6 in Covington. The daughter of Florence and Anderson Ellison, she was born in 1913 in Pike County, Ala. Mrs. Ellison lived in Midway, ala., for most of her live. She was a respected member of the local community and an active member of the Home and Aid Society. She was first married to Col. Davis Robbins, and they had five children. After his death, she married Andrew Tarver. In the 66 years of their marriage, they raised eight children, farmed and owned a local convenience store. Mrs. Tarver was an active member of St. Luke AME Church and a devoted member of its Sunday school. She served as church secretary, president of the Missionary Society, president of the local lay organization and president of the Usher Board. She was preceded in death by her parents, first husband, sister Carrie Long and brothers Anderson and Boston Ellison.
Surviving are husband Andrew Tarver; sons Col. (Kathy) Robbins, Huntsville, Ala.; Climira Robbins, Orlando, Fla., Fred (Irene) Robbins, macon; daughters Lonnye Bell (the Rev. Thomas) DeSue, Jacksonville, Fla., Donnie (Hubert) Daniels, Miami, Florence Brown, Miami, Mamie Singleton, Daytona Beach, Fla., Willie B. (George Sr.) Jefferson, Covington; 25 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. Nov. 14 at Grace United Methodist Church with Pastor Matt Murphy presiding. Also officiating were the Rev. Robert Ward Sr, Dr. Clarence E. Thrower Jr. and the Rev. Brenda Wilson. Interment in Alabama on Nov. 11.The Covington News Nov. 16, 2008
