Robby Jean Slade

UTICA – Robby Jean Slade, age 67, transitioned to heaven in the comfort and dignity of her own home on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Born in Utica on July 12, 1956, Robby was the daughter of Robert Slade and the late Arilla (Cummings) Slade. She attended local schools, graduating from Utica Free Academy and later attending MVCC. Robby realized her passion and true calling was helping children. She pursued this in the avenue of a teacher’s assistant, beginning at BOCES at Lincoln Academy. She then moved on to Middle Settlement Academy, a position from which she retired. Robby had the gift of connecting with the students. They respected and looked up to her both in and out of the classroom. Not content to stay inactive, she also assisted at the Thea Bowman House, and also found time to volunteer at the polling stations on election days. As a mother, she ensured that her children were provided for. Even during times when things were tight, she made it happen with nothing. Christmas was always a cherished and joyous time. Continuing the family traditions with the blessings of her grandchildren warmed her heart until the very end. Robby made a collection of “programs” and one could say she “attended all the funerals.” God and church were such an important part of her life; most recently she attended Christ Temple Church. Bringing her grandchildren to services with her was a great source of joy! Robby is survived by her father, Robert Slade; her children, Noel “Coco” Woods, and Marques “Marky” Williams, and Jahari Brown who was loved as a son; grandchildren, Tyvon “Tizz” Reed, Zyquan “Zamm” Reed, Ymajinae “Nana” Woods, Unijia “Tony” Lawrence, Derrick “JunJun” Walton, Dy-ata “Bean” Walton, Markeyona Williams, and Kenyan “Pumpkin” Williams; and her great-grandchildren, Melody, Lyric, Harmony “Chinka,” Ramari “Aries,” and London “Moka”. She leaves her memory to her siblings, Joanne Slade, Delphine Slade, Jennifer Slade, Isha Slade, Rory Slade, Darrell Slade; her fiancé, Mark Bell; aunts and uncles, Matthew Cummings, and James and Penny Cummings; a host of nieces and nephews, especially Lakeya “Kiki” Slade and Justine Slade; and many close friends, especially Barbara Anne Lawrence and Anne Smith, with whom she shared a special bond. She was preceded by her sister, Tammie Slade, who passed away at age two; her sister, Carol Slade; and aunts, Daisy Edwards, Bernice Smith, and Wilalah Cummings. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to all family and friends who have reached out with support during this challenging time. Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 23, 2023 from 1:30-3:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Robby’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For those unable to attend, you may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86552330568. Interment will take place in New Forest Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Robby Jean Slade

July 12, 1956 - December 14, 2023