Tupelo – William David “Doc” Robbins was born in Shannon, Mississippi on September 21, 1937, to Murphy and Willie George Robbins. After graduating from Shannon High School, he attended Delta State University. Doc was a faithful member of West Jackson Street Baptist Church in Tupelo.

After beginning his career as an educator in the Nettleton School District, he served as the assistant principal at Shannon High School. Doc went on to work for the Mississippi Department of Corrections as a probation officer and regional supervisor. During this time, he was honored to serve on the board for Faith Haven and was instrumental in starting the Alpha House for Boys.

Once he retired from the Department of Corrections, Doc became busier than ever. He worked part time at Kroger and for the Tupelo Furniture Market, where he worked flea markets and gun and knife shows. Doc also worked as a bailiff at the Lee County Justice Center.

Doc’s last adventure was being a volunteer at Sanctuary Hospice House and Sanctuary Thrift Store. He referred to the Hospice House as “Heaven’s Waiting Room.” He believed that helping others was the key to a long happy life, and he lived that out everyday.

In July of 2023, Doc moved to Countrywood Manor Assisted Living in Mantachie. He continued to live life to the fullest every day. Gena and all the girls loved him and allowed him to be “Doc” and in charge. Countrywood was the perfect home and family for him.

Doc passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo. Doc is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Riley (Rickey); his grandchildren, Louis Lee (Allie) and Cade Riley (Casey); his great-grandchildren, Olivia Lee, Lucy Lee, Camden Riley, and June Riley; his stepdaughter, Angel Williams; his stepson, Lance Young; and step-granddaughter Emma Kate Williams. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of thirty years Bettie Robbins, his brother Edwin Robbins (Tera), and his stepdaughter Tracee Davidofsky.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, February 16, 2026, at Pegues Funeral Directors in Tupelo. There will be a family burial at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Doc’s wish was for memorials to be made to Sanctuary Hospice House, PO Box 2177, Tupelo, Mississippi 38803.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be left at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.