Robbi Y. Jenkins

Memorial Services for Robbi Y. Jenkins, 70, Lawrence, will be at Noon on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

Robbi was born on December 2, 1954, the first child of Linnie and Robert Banks of Starkville, MS. She grew up in many places due to her father’s military career. In school, Robbi was an exceptional student who also excelled in ballet and cheer. She graduated from Yorktown High School in New York. After high school, Robbi attended Howard University and Fisk University. She left college to work for Delta Airlines as a flight attendant.

Robbi married Frank Jenkins in 1981, and they later divorced. Robbi found her true calling when she attended Washburn Culinary School and received her Culinary Arts degree. She began her career at the Ritz Carlton Hotel working under the tutelage of Chefs Sarah Stegner and George Bonbaras. After leaving the Ritz Carlton, she spent the next years working in many different restaurant kitchens. She moved to Lawrence Kansas to accept the position of Head Chef at the fine dining establishment of Prairie Fire Restaurant. She later worked as Room Chef and Main Chef at the Ameristar Casino in Kansas City. After Ameristar, Robbi was hired to lead the culinary team at Prairie Band Casino as the Executive Chef.

Robbi also served on the board of Meals on Wheels and other charitable endeavors.

Following many years of culinary success, Robbi retired. At home she enjoyed preparing delicious and innovative meals for her family and friends.

Robbie departed this world on January 28, 2025 by simply falling asleep and never awakening.

Messages & Condolences

From Reggie Carter...

I am saddened to hear of the loss of your loved one. My prayer is that you find comfort in God’s love and each other.

From Clarence & Mary Carter & Family...

Our deepest condolences to the family. We are praying that God will give you strength and comfort in the days and season to come.

From Ellen Paulsen...

I’m so glad I got to know Robbi a bit at the pool. She was such a positive and friendly person. It was fun to be around her so sorry for your loss.

From Linda Hyler...

Eric and I are so sorry for the loss of your daughter and sister. We enjoyed seeing her from time to time in the neighborhood. Linda and Eric Hyler

From Linda Schnose...

Deepest sympathies to the family of Robbie Jenkins. We met at water aerobics class and she always brought a smile and sense of humor

From Edith Guffey...

I am so very sorry to hear this. I knew Robbie through a water aerobics class and enjoyed knowing her. We exchanged notes on occasion and I followed her on Facebook. We always said we would get together and I am just so glad we did enjoying lunch together in early October. I learned so much about her and will miss her passion, her writing, her laugh and her joy.

From Connee Shufelt...

I’m so very sorry to learn of Robbi’s passing.She was a bright and witty lady who was a pleasure to know. My condolences to her family.

From Elaine Engstrom...

I loved getting to know Robbi through meeting in the pool. She had a great sense of humor and flair, I will miss her

From Marianne Wille...

Robbi was a sweet new friend. We met while working out at the pool in a deep end fitness class. She told me about her love of ballet as a girl, cooking as a professional, and time with her dear family. I will miss her and her bright smile!

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