Born Jane Ellen Dickison on June 26, 1919,[1][2] as the daughter of Clarence Anson Dickison (July 28, 1878 – February 8, 1965), a school teacher, who in 1924 became Compton's first mayor and the former Meda Kelso (October 2, 1885 – July 31, 1962). Both of her parents are natives of the state of Missouri.[4]
She met her future husband, Compton Police Officer Robert Robbins on a blind date. They married just three days later.[4] The union produced two daughters, Paula Mae and Robyn Jane.
In 1976, when Compton City Councilman Hillard Hamm was convicted of extortion, Robbins, won a special election to fill his seat. Prior to her election, she was principal of Dickison Elementary, named after her father.[4]
Robbins who'd rather recite a poem or share anecdotes about the city's history than debate political issues, was so beloved by her constituents, that she won reelection four times without extensive campaigning.[4] She served until 1995, when she lost a fifth reelection bid to Fred Cressel.
Upon her defeat, Omar Bradley, Compton's often controversial mayor, spoke very highly of her. "Miss Robbins never ever said a mean thing about anyone. She was never vindictive, even when she was attacked," Bradley was quoted in a Los Angeles Times article about her. "I would like to be more like that."[4]
Upon leaving office, Robbins had the distinction of having the longest tenure of service on the Compton City Council. Her record would stand until Yvonne Arceneaux, broke her record in 2012.[5]
Robbins died on March 1, 2008, at the age of 88.[2]
| Political offices
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| Preceded by |
Compton, California City Council
4th district
1976–1995 |
Succeeded by |
