Robyn Claire Robertson
January 20, 1956 – September 27, 2026
Robyn Claire Robertson, beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on January 20, 1956, Robyn was a longtime and much-loved member of the Athol, Massachusetts, community. She dedicated 26 years to working at Athol Community Elementary School (ACES), where she was well-known and respected by students, families, and coworkers. She cared deeply about the children she worked with and took great pride in being a part of their lives. Robyn was known for her creativity in the classroom and especially enjoyed the school plays she helped direct.
But while Robyn gave so much of herself to her work and her community, her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to Ashley Robertson of Las Vegas, Nevada; Stephany Robertson of Athol, Massachusetts; Andrea Robertson of Athol, Massachusetts; and Diane Harrison (Bill) of Ware, Massachusetts. She was also a proud grandmother and treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren, Robbie, Rozlyn, Reese, Brodie, Taylor, Emily, and Abigail.
Robyn was someone who could make people laugh simply by being herself. She had an infectious laugh, a wonderful sense of humor, and a gift for finding the funny side of life. One of her favorite little games was deliberately putting the emphasis on the wrong syllable of a word, just to see if people could figure out what she was saying. She loved watching the moment of confusion before revealing that, yes, she knew perfectly well how the word was supposed to be pronounced.
In fact, one of the last things Robyn ever said to her sister was, “I found a new re-SIP-ee.” Of course, she knew exactly how to pronounce “recipe.” She was just being Robyn -- making someone laugh right up until the end.
Her laughter could brighten a room, and her warmth made people feel comfortable and welcome. She never needed to be the center of attention to leave an impression -- her personality, kindness, and unmistakable laugh did that for her.
Robyn was predeceased by her father and mother, Francis P. Farley and Claire “Gug” (Kidnay) Farley, and her brother, Glen P. Farley. She leaves behind her three brothers, Bruce Farley, Patrick (Francis) Farley (Patti Lou), and Kim Farley (Donna), all of Athol, Massachusetts; and her two sisters, Marcia McMullen (Danny) and Sue Jenkins of Sun City Center, Florida. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom loved and adored her.
Robyn was very close with her family and cherished the community she called home. She valued her friendships and the many relationships she developed throughout her life. She especially looked forward to spending a couple of months each year in Florida with her sisters and enjoyed her time in Las Vegas with her daughter Ashley.
Those who knew Robyn will remember her for her caring nature, her contagious laugh, her wonderful sense of humor, her unwavering dedication to her family, and her faith in God. Most of all, they will remember the genuine connections she made with the people around her and the joy she brought into their lives.
She will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, extended family, friends, former coworkers, and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
Her laugh may be gone from the room, but the memories and laughter she gave to all of us will remain in our hearts forever.
A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor at a later date.
Robyn was an avid supporter of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.