Union Mourns Tower Operator Phyllis Robinson-Ward, 68, Dies from Coronavirus

Phyllis Robinson, 68, of Brooklyn, NY, passed away April 8, 2020 in the ICU unit of Kings County Hospital. She had 30 years of service with MTA/NYCT, and most recently worked midnights at Rockaway Park. Services have not yet been held for her due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her only daughter, Francine, gave us this remembrance:

Phyllis was born the first of three children, to Fred Melvin Robinson and Clara Edmonia Robinson in Harlem, New York, on July 25, 1951. Phyllis graduated from Julia Richmond High School in 1969 and went on to receive a B.A. degree in Mathematics from Fordham University in 1977.

She was really into computers, and had a very analytical mind. Always looking for solutions to problems, she kept herself well-informed on many issues. 1010WINS and NPR were the radio stations she listened to the most. She was also a big fan of science fiction. The Star Trek series was her absolute favorite with Marvel and DC comics coming in a tight second.

Phyllis was a hard worker, with a strong commitment to excellence in everything she pursued. She also made the most of every opportunity and encouraged others to do the same thing. Long before working for the MTA, Phyllis worked for the U.S. Army as an Operations Research Analyst. She was the only Black Woman appointed to that position during 1980. During her tenure there she received at least two commendations for outstanding performance, and several promotions.

Phyllis was an influential and humble woman. Her warm heart, and passion for helping showed up in her interactions with others.  A wonderful mother, she is survived by her only child, Francine C. Ward, whom she taught to never give up, try something before deciding, and to “always find solutions because problems will always find you.” She is also survived by her brothers Stanley M. Robinson and Mark G. Robinson, who she loved dearly, her two sisters- in-law, Betty Robinson and Pia Robinson, who she was glad they were close as sisters; and a host of cousins.

Phyllis will be missed by her family, friends and associates. She was truly a remarkable woman. Although we mourn her absence from us, we rejoice that she is with the Lord.

Eric Loegel, Vice President of RTO, said of her: “Sister Robinson was a remarkable woman, and her loss is a big blow to our close-knit Tower Operator section. I’ve shared my profound sorrow with her daughter Francine, and I wish her and all of Sister Robinson’s loved ones comfort during this time of grief.”