From staff reports
Former Port Royal Mayor Henry “Luck” Robinson died on Friday morning, Jan. 3, 2025, at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. He was 88 years old.
A tailor by trade — he worked on MCRD Parris Island for 50 years – Robinson was the first Black man to run for and serve as Town Councilman and Mayor in the history of the Town of Port Royal.
He first ran for Town Council as a 32-year-old in 1969. After serving eight years on Council, he ran for and was elected mayor, a position he held for 18 years until he retired in 1995.
He couldn’t stay away, though, running for Council again in 1999 and serving until he retired for good in 2011 at the age of 75.
Port Royal’s boardwalk at The Sands Beach, is named for Robinson, an avid fisherman. Robinson, one of 14 brothers and sisters, is survived by his wife, Mrs. Linda J. Robinson.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mayor, Henry Robinson. He was a pillar in the Port Royal community and cared deeply for the success of Port Royal,” Port Royal Town Councilman and Robinson’s friend posted on the tribute page for the former mayor on Serenity Mortuary – Historic Beaufort Chapel’s webpage. “Over the years he was not only a mentor, but also a friend and great supporter. I extend my deepest sympathies to Mrs. Linda and the Robinson family, may you find comfort in the cherished memories you shared.”
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Union Baptist Church Building Fund, C/O E. Renee’ Wallace, 634 Fort Fredrick Court, Port Royal, S.C., 29935 or Sons of Veterans of the Civil War (Grand Army Hall) P.O. Box 1961, Beaufort, S.C., 29901.
There will be a public viewing from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10 at the Serenity Mortuary – Historic Beaufort Chapel on Carteret Street.
There will be a Celebration of Life at noon, Saturday, Jan. 11, at the Tabernacle Baptist Church at 901 Craven Street in Beaufort. The event will be livestreamed at the Serenity Mortuary – Historic Beaufort Chapel’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SerenityBft1/.
Robinson will be laid to rest at Beaufort Memorial Gardens.
