Jenna Leigh Robinson

Jenna Leigh Robinson, age 17, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 4, 2016. She was born in Biloxi, Mississippi on February 22, 1999. Jenna and her two sisters were raised by devoted, loving parents Paul and Toinette Robinson, who instilled in their children the values of honesty, hard work, and initiative. Jenna’s life reflected her love of the preforming arts as she was an accomplished dancer, singer, and character both on and off stage. Jenna completed her high school studies at the age of 16 in December 2015. She graduated with high honors and was already completing college courses with ease. While still in high school, Jenna started her own thriving business. ISPA and Events was her brainchild and quickly became a staple at events hosted by the City of Gulfport, private birthday parties, and even public school functions across the Coast. She successfully ran every aspect of the business from booking events, casting characters, and even performing as the crowd favorite, Anna from Frozen. When not working on her school or her business, you would find Jenna in her second home, the dance studio. She was constantly striving to refine her ballet technique, explore new qualities of movement in modern and jazz, and create incredibly thoughtful new choreography… something she had recently discovered an adept eye and knack for. Jenna was inspiring to her teachers and peers at Island School of Performing Arts. Younger students, many of whom Jenna taught herself as an assistant teacher in training, viewed her as the ultimate role model. Parents looked to Jenna as a mentor for their young dancers. She had a positive influence and impact on every person that came through those studio doors. Jenna’s curly, red hair and contagious smile were her signature. She built countless lasting friendships and earned trust and respect throughout the community she called home. Jenna is preceded in death by her grandparents Hilton and Noreta Robinson; great grandparents; and close family friends. She is survived by her parents Paul Y Robinson and Toinette Ann Tyner Robinson; sisters, Cassandra (Chris) Hild and nephew Theo and Michelle Robinson; grandparents, Ralph and Vicki Tyner; and many loved aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and dance family. Jenna’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Marcus Lee, Jaime Cook and the staff in their office. Your dedication to Jenna is appreciated. Services will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi, MS on Friday, April 8, 2016. Friends are invited to visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. with Mass at noon. The family request guest to wear Jenna’s favorite color, purple. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation at any Hancock Bank to the Jenna Robinson Scholarship Fund. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.