Yvette Robbins' Obituary
The Robbins family announces with deep sadness the passing of their beloved matriarch, Yvette Kokol Robbins, who died peacefully on January 1, 2026, in her hometown of Miami Beach, Florida. Born on February 7, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Yvette lived a full and vibrant life spanning nearly 90 years.
Yvette was preceded in death by her devoted husband and soulmate of 53 years, Jack Robbins; her son, Steven Robbins, a dedicated officer with the Miami Beach Police Department; her parents, Sidney and Jeanne Kokol; her in-laws, Sam and Anne Robbins; and her younger sister, Sheila Harris.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Fran Robbins of Miami Beach, Florida; her brother, Irving “Doc” Kokol of Tallahassee, Florida; three cherished grandchildren, Gregory Robbins of Southwest Ranches, Florida; Brooke Freimuth of Brandon, Florida; and Kenneth Robbins of Hudson, Florida; and several great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy in her later years.
Jack and Yvette's love story began on a blind date arranged by the woman who became her sister-in-law, Selma Kimelman. Jack often recounted how he traveled from Brooklyn to Lawrence, New York, and was instantly captivated upon seeing the "exquisite" teenage Yvette descending a spiral staircase in her family home. Struck by her beauty and charm, he knew she was the one. They married on her 18th birthday and welcomed their first child a year later.
For nearly 30 years, Yvette and Jack proudly owned and operated the Alton Road Chevron service station on Miami Beach, building a thriving business and strong community ties until their retirement in 1989.
Above all, Yvette treasured family and hospitality. She opened her home generously to international students and extended family members living in Miami Beach. Known for her exceptional cooking, she prepared lavish meals that brought everyone together—her coveted Thanksgiving dinners were especially legendary. Yvette maintained lifelong connections with relatives and friends across the country, staying in touch diligently through calls and letters until her health began to decline.
Arrangements are under the care of Levitt-Weinstein Memorial Chapels. A private, family-only memorial ceremony will be held next month on what would have been Yvette's birthday. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to a charity close to Yvette's heart, supporting family services or community hospitality programs.
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