James Oliver Robertson

James Oliver Robertson, 83, passed peacefully the morning of August 24th, in Sebring, FL. Melanie, his wife of 43 years, was by his side. Born in Marion, Ohio, February 9,1943, Jim grew up in the town of Richwood, which he loved dearly, and maintained lifelong connections with childhood friends. In the footsteps of his father, he studied Industrial Arts Education at Ohio University, and then completed his graduate degree in Education at the University of Illinois Urbana/ Champagne. Jim moved to Sebring in 1968 to join the Highlands County school system as the “shop” teacher at Sebring High School, then becoming Vice Principal of Avon Park High School. This change was significant as he was hired to manage a volatile culture following the integration of public schools. He approached this challenge with the traits that would come to define his life–an abiding respect for all, and a willingness to listen before speaking. His success in this role led to new opportunities with South Florida Community College in 1978, beginning again as a teacher before becoming Department Chair of Trade and Industry, developing partnerships that brought economic development to Highlands County and countless opportunities for students entering the professional trades. He retired from SFCC in August of 2000.

In 1983, Jim married Melanie, and with the help of three generations of friends and family, they built the house that stands as the family homestead today.

Jim spent his life teaching. He believed in the potential of every student, and spent his life helping others grow, often beyond the limits they saw for themselves. His success as a teacher was grounded in his own passion for learning. Among his many interests, music was central to Jim’s life. He loved the traditional music of Appalachia, and his prowess on the guitar, fiddle, and most stringed instruments was how many of his dearest friends first came to know him. In the 1970s-80s he played with the Rock Bottom Bluegrass Band, Highlands County Bluegrass Band, and the Robertson, Trott, and Snyder trio. Once he and Melanie began to play together, joined by family both actual and chosen, Back Porch Revival was formed, the culmination of his love for music, family, and community. Together they played all over Florida and the south, including 30 years at the Florida Folk Festival, his spiritual home on the banks of the Suwanee River.

Jim was also a devout student of Tae Kwon Do. In keeping with his trademark commitment, he received his 5th degree black belt. Again, at the center of his interest in the martial arts was his enthusiasm for the progress and growth of others. He was also a student and teacher of Tai Chi, returning and restoring wellness to many. Together with Melanie, they opened Natural Health Consulting, and served the community for 11 years providing nutritional counseling and wellness training to clients suffering from chronic illness, debilitating conditions, or seeking a healthier lifestyle.

One of Jim’s last, and most impassioned endeavors was Sandy’s MusicGirls, a non-profit organization honoring the life and legacy of Sandy Greer Morrison, beloved Florida musician. Founded by Sandy’s husband, Steve Morrison, this mission was, and continues to be, the personification of Jim’s greatest interests and values: music, family, community, learning, and purpose. Watching new generations of girls develop a love of music and traditional instruments moved him deeply and made his spirit soar with joy.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Oliver Owen Robertson and Nellie Marie (Watts) Robertson. He is survived by his wife, Melanie McClure Robertson, his children; Libby Nobis (Byron), Melissa Provost (Aaron), John Robertson (Melissa), and Tres Ramer (Kim), as well as his grandchildren: Savanna Provost, Kaiti Provost, Marlie Provost, and Nicolas Nobis, and also his great-grandson, Xander Provost. The encouragement and love he shared with his community, he shared with his family ten-fold.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jim’s name to the following charitable organizations that he deeply cherished; or simply be there to shine a light for others in need, wherever you may find them.

Sandy’s MusicGirls

The Mission of Sandy's MusicGirls is to develop music skills, creativity, and self-esteem in girls 6 to 19. (www.sandysmusicgirls.org)
Sandy’s MusicGirls, P. O. Box 608, Lake Wales, FL 33859
Checks payable to Lake Wales Arts Council; note line: MusicGirls

The Friends of Highlands Hammock State Park
The Friends of Highlands Hammock State Park is a non-profit citizen support organization (CSO) whose mission is to preserve, restore and protect the park, while promoting community involvement. (www.friendsofhighlandshammockstatepark.org/)

The family is planning a celebration of Jim’s life for early 2027 at Highlands Hammock State Park. 

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
Sebring, Florida
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com