Robert H. Vinson, 81, died June 1, 2010 at VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach.
He was born in Ahoskie, N.C., and lived in Vero Beach for fifty years, starting his practice in pediatric medicine in Vero Beach in 1960.
He graduated as salutatorian at Ahoskie High School in 1947. He received his B.S. and medical degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, interned at University of Iowa, and was the first pediatric resident graduate of the University of Florida College of Medicine, wherein he later became a clinical professor.
He served his country as a captain in the US Air Force in Seville, Spain. He established his practice in pediatrics in Vero Beach in 1960.
Subsequently, he was actively involved in volunteer and leadership capacities in many organizations and charities, mainly Mental Health Association, local and state board president. He was awarded honorary achievement recognition on behalf of his efforts in founding and organizing New Horizons in Fort Pierce; Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, Inc., Florida Baptist Family Ministries, Inc., First Baptist Church as Sunday School teacher, choir member, and Missions Board service.
He spearheaded the first medical mission sponsored by the First Baptist Church and remained active in mission service through the First Baptist Church.
After his retirement, he was an adjunct professor with Upward Bound and volunteered for Habitat for Humanity. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Chi, past member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and Florida Pediatric Society.
He was a devoted family man, who enjoyed the “dance” of life.
Dr. Vinson was predeceased in death by his parents, James and Faye Vinson, brother Sam and identical twin brother Dr. William Vinson.
He is survived by his beloved wife Augusta G. Vinson; daughters, Frances Sexton, (Randy), Audrey Sexton and Jamie Perkins-Hart (Jim); sons Bobby Vinson, Jr., (Susan) and Gray Vinson; grandchildren, Ellie, Becky, and Elsebeth Sexton; Vivian Ramsey (Ron), Lilly and Jack Perkins; and Hunter and Sydney Vinson.
A Celebration of His Life will be 11 a.m., June 5, 2010 at First Baptist Church of Vero Beach with the Rev. Derrick West and Dr. James F. Graves both of First Baptist Church of Vero Beach officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Baptist Children’s Home, P.O. Box 8190, Lakeland Fl. 33802 or VNA Hospice, 1110 35th Lane Vero Beach, FL. 32960.
A register book may be signed at www. strunkfuneralhome.com.
