Michael Dean Robinson

Obituary for Michael Dean Robinson
February 22, 1962 – April 19, 2025

Michael Dean “Mike” Robinson, 63, of Kinston, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, after an extended illness and a brief stay at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.

Born on February 22, 1962, in Kinston, Mike was a proud lifelong resident of Lenoir County. He graduated from South Lenoir High School in 1980 and went on to build a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and farming. A second-generation farmer, Mike took the humble beginnings of Robinson Farming and built upon them through hard work, passion, and a willingness to take risks. His efforts grew the operation into the thriving legacy known today as M.D. Robinson Farms. Over the years, he cultivated tobacco, corn, soybeans, and wheat.  He also operated nursery and finishing farms contracted with Smithfield Foods, as well as Duplin Minerals. Mike loved his John Deere tractors, the smell of a newly tilled field, and the satisfaction of a hard day’s work.

Mike was devoted to his land and his community. He served on the Lenoir County Soil and Water Conservation Board, including a period as Chair, helping to guide agricultural stewardship in the region. He grew up attending Pleasant Hill Christian Church and later in life found a church family at First Presbyterian Church in Kinston.

Mike’s real pride wasn’t found in the acres he farmed — it was in the life he built with his wife, Vickie Stroud Robinson, and their daughters, Ansley and Ashlynn. His family was his world, and everything he did was for them. He found joy in riding around the farm with his wife, teaching Ashlynn how to drive the tractor and bush hog, and Ansley how to fish. Taking them all out on the Dealmaker — his beloved sanctuary on the water — brought him true peace. Those simple, everyday moments are what he cherished most.

To those who knew him well, Mike Robinson was the true measure of strength, kindness, and quiet generosity. His steady hand and determined spirit left a lasting impression on everyone whose life he touched. Mike built his life on the principles of honesty, hard work, and trust — values he lived out each day without ever seeking recognition. He was the kind of man who would give without being asked, help without hesitation, and stand by those he cared about with unwavering loyalty. His legacy of goodness and grit will endure in the hearts and lives of all who knew him.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Elisha Dortch “E.D.” Robinson; his mother, Tessie Mae Howard Robinson; Thomas "Tom" Stroud Sr., and his special friend and beloved "Nana," Dorothy “Dot” Braxton.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 21 years, Vickie Stroud Robinson; his treasured daughters, Ansley (17) and Ashlynn (13) Robinson; mother-in-law, Brenda Stroud; special brother-in-law, Thomas “Tommy” Stroud (Lisa); siblings, Donald Glenn Robinson (Kay) and Darnell Robinson Jones (Jack); and many special nieces and nephews. 

Mike deeply valued his M.D. Robinson Farms family of employees—especially Manuel Bonilla, whose loyalty and devotion to the farm and to Mike's family will never be forgotten. He was also blessed with many dear friends, and some of his most cherished memories were made on the BIG water alongside his fishing buddies: Captain Joe Webb, Tom Lehman, and Gary Knight.

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 2101 North Heritage Street, Kinston, NC.

The family would like to thank everyone who showed kindness and support during Mike’s illness — the prayers, visits, and acts of love meant more than words can say. The family is also especially grateful to the caregivers at UNC Health Lenoir and Kitty Askins Hospice Center for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to First Presbyterian Church of Kinston or to the Lenoir Hospital Foundation, organizations close to Mike and his family’s hearts.

Mike’s life was a testament to hard work, love, and quiet strength — a legacy that will live on in the fields he tilled, the waters he fished, and most importantly, the hearts of those who loved him most.