Robin J. Burkes, Sr. was born in Dawson, Georgia on December 12, 1953.  He was the youngest child in the union of the late Herman and Eliza Burkes.

He received his early childhood and secondary education in the Terrell County School System, graduating from Carver High School.  During his high school years, he acquired an in-depth understanding of mathematical concepts, adjustments, and tuning, and developed multiple technical and industrial skills that steered his attention to the automotive service repair industry.

Throughout his childhood, Robin was nurtured in the Word of God and immersed in a Christian community that would become his lifelong support.  He united with the Green Grove Missionary Church and served faithfully through the years.  Robin was ordained as a Deacon at Green Grove and, thereafter, devoted himself to unparalleled commitment and service to his calling.  In later years,  he continued his walk with the Lord, at Paradise Missionary Baptist Church Ministries under the leadership of Prophet Darryl Taylan, and Pastors Franklin Smith and Cecil Strawder.  It was there that his love God was strengthened, his spiritual gifts were nurtured, and he realized the calling on his life to preach the Word of God..  Accepting his ministerial call, he was ordained as an Elder and proved to be a steadfast, powerful man of God.  Elder Burkes had a strong desire to equip people with the Word and continued to avail himself in service at New Bethel Pentecostal Church in Tifton, Georgia until his health declined.  His faith and trust in God guided his life and allowed him to be an example for all who came in contact with him.

Having been blessed with gifted hands, Elder Burkes began his professional career at Bob's Candies.  While this work was diverse and rewarding, his great love and passion for automotives ultimately led him to his true calling and life-long career as a mechanic.  For many years, he owned and operated Burkes Automotive Center on Old Radium Springs Road.  His expertise in the field, workmanship, and professional ethics yielded him the reputation of being "top notch" in his field.  He found great joy and solace in his enduring passion that enabled him to provide unconditionally for his family.  In his final years, he transitioned to employment as a master mechanic with the Marine Corps Logistics Base where he poured himself untiringly into his work—always giving his BEST.

For those who knew him, drag racing in his earlier years was also another passion that earned him the coveted title of "Mr. Get-Off."   Elder Burkes loved being outside enjoying the beauty of the earth, working in his yard, and caring for his plants and flowers.  He also enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, and people throughout the community who were blessed by his kind words, deeds, and congenial spirit.   The strong bonds of friendship that he developed throughout his life will forever be cherished and remembered.

On November 7, 2022, the Lord called Elder Burkes home to rest from his labor.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, R. J. Burkes, Ola Mae Jones, and Herman Lee Burkes.

Cherished memories will forever remain in the hearts of his children , Cuyitito (Nate) Roberts, Robin Burkes, Jr., Andrew L. Ross, and Anthony Ross; two sisters, Delores Anderson and Beauty (Walter) Argo; a very special cousin, Diane Chambers; sixteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends