Janet P. Robbins

Janet P. Robbins, 93, passed away on September 9th, 2025 at home in Delmar, NY.  She was surrounded by her family and beloved dog, Emma. Janet was born on March 27,1932 in Dover, Delaware where she was raised by her loving parents, Harvey and Mildred Porter of Camden, Delaware.  She grew up alongside her older sister, Louise P. Massey.

Janet was a devoted mother, daughter, wife, and friend. She was admired for her strength and willingness to embrace life with love. She was a dedicated homemaker, prolific volunteer and supporter of many organizations working to uplift others. Janet’s kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew her. For 20 years, at Schenectady County Community College, Janet dedicated herself to helping students as a counselor, a role perfectly suited to her supportive and caring nature. Known for her love of cooking and culinary talents, Janet brought loved ones together with her meals and baked goods. She opened her generous heart to everyone she met, always providing comfort and a sense of home. She had an eye for design and detail, and found joy in gardening. Janet worked to create the most beautiful floral gardens and loved floral arrangements. Her home was warm and inviting which she maintained with her love and care for all who came.

Janet is preceded in death by her husband, Cornelius V. Robbins and sister, Louise P.Massey. She leaves behind her loving family, including her four daughters, Eva Burke and husband Ray, Laurel Robbins, Susan Robbins and partner Jeff Kantor, and Melissa Beegle and husband Scott; her five grandchildren, Amanda Thomas (Jason), Andrea O’Brien (Joe); and Leslie, Christina, and Margaret Beegle; her four great-grandchildren, Drew and Jacob Thomas and Colleen and Emmett O’Brien. Janet’s nieces and nephews, Leslie Massey Smith, Michael Massey, Chip Massey, Edward Lang, David Lang and Nancy Lang also remember her fondly.

Janet had a strong affection for her home state of Delaware, where she attended her cherished school, Caesar Rodney in Camden, Delaware, just steps from her family home. This is where her musical journey began, performing in the marching band as a flutist and lending her voice to the chorus, she also developed a talent for the piano. Janet honed her musical skills at the University of Delaware where she earned her bachelor’s degree focusing on music education.She crossed paths with Cornelius (Neal) Robbins at the University, who she later married upon graduation in 1953. Later, she earned her Master’s degree in counseling from the University of Brockport.

Janet and her family moved several times over the years, pouring love into each new place to create a true home for her growing family of four daughters. Finally, settling in New York, where she spent her retirement with her daughters and grandchildren.

Janet lovingly stood by Neal after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2006, caring for him at home with grace and devotion until his passing in 2013. Her love never wavered, and her care was a true reflection of her steadfast heart. Not long after caring for Neal, Janet faced her own health struggles. Yet, through every challenge, her strength shone brightly. She kept her light and sense of humor alive, inspiring those around her. When she was given her final cancer diagnosis,she met it with courage and continued to live each day as fully as she could, showing the true meaning of resilience.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Nathan Mitkoff for the many years he so warmly cared for her, Dr. Mikhail Torosoff for his deep compassion and many acts of kindness he showed Janet and her family; and Nancy Histed and Regina Goodbee for the many years of devotion,care and love they showered upon Janet. Janet’s dear friends—Manuel Alguero, Judi Clements,and the late Thad Raushi—provided cherished companionship and unwavering support throughout her life. The family would also like to thank Community Hospice of Albany for their caring support.

A memorial service in celebration of Janet’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. with a gathering time from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 13th, 2025 at Applebee Funeral Home in Delmar, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Hospice of Albany, 310 So. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208.