Thelma Burchfield Robinette

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. Proverbs 31:10-11 KJV

Thelma Burchfield Robinette, age 90, of Kingsport, TN went to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 5, 2026. She was born in Hawkins County, TN to Bart and Mae Burchfield on May 16, 1935. Thelma worked at J.P Stevens where she met the love of her life James Robinette. After leaving J.P Stevens Thelma worked as a cosmetologist for many years until retirement. Thelma was a member of Bible Way Baptist Church where she served as the church secretary for 21 years. Thelma was an avid bowler and even won the National Championship with her bowling partner in 1989 in Baton Rouge, LA. She also won many awards in the Senior Olympics. Thelma will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother and will be missed by all who knew her. 

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by brothers B.L, infant Ronnie, and Carroll Burchfield; sisters Glenda Barrett and Aileen Parker. 

Those left to cherish her memory is her husband of 71 years James Robinette; daughter Sherrie (Tim) Harr; grandson Chris (Mindy) Livesay; granddaughter Melinda (Daniel) Henard; great-grandchildren Kyli and Landon; sister Brenda Love; as well as several nieces and nephews. 

A visitation of family and friends will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Carter-Trent Funeral Home – Kingsport. A funeral service will follow at 12:30 pm with Pastor Rick Vannoy officiating. A graveside service will be held at East Lawn Memorial Park on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 3:00 pm. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 2:50pm. Tim Harr, Chris Livesay, Daniel Henard, and Mike Moody will be serving as Honorary pallbearers. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

To view a memorial video please click here.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the nursing staff at NHC – Kingsport and caregiver Frieda Sluss for their excellent care. 

Carter-Trent Funeral Home – Kingsport is serving the Robinette family.