Obituary published on Legacy.com by Palmer Memorial Chapel - Sumter on Apr. 13, 2026.
Mrs. Arneitta K. Atkinson Robinson, widower of the late John H. Robinson, was born December 4, 1942, in
Sumter, South Carolina, to the late Arnett Keitt and Sophia Murray Keitt. She was called from earthly labor to eternal rest in the arms of God on T hursday, April 9, 2026, at Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital in
Sumter, South Carolina.
Arneitta was educated in the public schools of Sumter County and was a 1960 graduate of Ebenezer High School in Dalzell, South Carolina. After graduating from high school, she attended Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina, where she earned her degree in 1964. She later pursued graduate studies as she began her career in education.
Her extensive teaching career began at Delaine Elementary School, the same school she attended as a child. She later taught in Johnsonville, South Carolina, Florence County, and Georgetown County, where she retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service.
Arneitta was reared in a Christian home, accepted Christ at an early age, and joined Wayman Chapel AME Church. As a child and young adult, she was very active in the church, serving in the choir, Sunday School, and other youth ministries.
Arneitta was first married to Ernest W. Atkinson, and from this union one son was born.
In 1995, Arneitta returned to Sumter County and reconnected with her home church, Wayman Chapel AME. Later, she was spiritually led to Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully served in the Children's Ministry.
Following her marriage to the late John H. Robinson, she joined High Hills AME Church in Dalzell, South Carolina. There, she served with the Daughters of Sarah, the Floral Club, and the Summer Youth Program.
After the passing of her husband, she returned once again to Wayman Chapel AME Church, where she remained a faithful and supportive member. She actively participated in the Women's Missionary Society, Church School, and Youth Ministry until her health declined.
Arneitta had a heart for helping others and lived a life rooted in service and compassion. She was actively involved with the Cherryvale Senior Center and faithfully initiated a water ministry at her church during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a proud member of the Golden Girls, she found joy in fellowship and community. Arneitta also dedicated her time to tutoring children, always eager to support their growth and success. She cherished the simple joys of life, especially her late-night Scrabble games with her "cousin-sister," Ethel - often calling her to play well into the night. The beach was her favorite getaway, and she believed no distance was too far when it came to making memories, often finding joy in the journey itself-even if it meant driving well above the speed limit. Dining out brought her great happiness, particularly enjoying meals at Jackson's Cuisine. Arneitta's home was always open, a place of warmth and welcome, where she often hosted rehearsals for the World Wonders. Her vibrant spirit and love for others will be fondly remembered.
Arneitta was a deeply loving and devoted mother whose constant encouragement and unwavering support inspired her son to strive for success in everything he pursued.
Precious memories of her life will be forever cherished by her loving son, Ernest Atkinson, of the home; bonus children, Harold Dawson, Melvin Dawson, Linsey (Gwendolyn) Robinson, Derrick (KeaQuanda) Robinson, John Vergil (Melissa) Robinson; her siblings, Rev. Arnett C Keitt, Sumter SC; Joyce Sommerset, New Jersey; Joseph Keitt, Mary Keitt, Michael Keitt and Loretta Keitt, all of New York; 'cousin-sister' Ethel Brown, Sumter, who provided constant care and companionship; three sisters-in-law, Rev. Ruth Robinson, Columbia, SC and Olivia (Eddie) Morant,
Sumter, SC, Eyvonne Keitt, Columbia, SC. God children Lashonda(Winfield) Gadson, Janiyah Brown and Aaleyah Brown of Sumter; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Special thank you to the care givers Barbara, Sandy and Tylishia. Also to the nieces and nephews that helped with her care, Allen (Tamara) Keitt, Shirlene Keitt, Marlene Boykin, Robert M. Brown and Meshanda Brown.