Family and friends are asked to don bright colours when they gather for a celebration of Robbie Butler’s life.
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The celebration of Robbie’s life begins at 10am on July 14 at The Westport Club.
Robbie died on July 4 at the age of 71.
The Port Macquarie entertainer and community worker will be remembered for her smile which lit up the room, her bright personality, generous and giving nature and her community involvement.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Robbie had a knack of brightening people’s days.
Claire Gunn said her mum had a giving nature.
“She was like an angel on earth,” she said.
Claire said her mother, who genuinely cared, made people feel important.
Grant Butler said his mum had time for everyone and always had time to listen to their stories.
“She was always trying to make people’s day a little brighter,” he said.
Grant said everyone would have their own special memories.
Robyn “Robbie” Butler was born in Hornsby and grew up in Asquith.
Robbie married Geoff Buxton at age 21 and later married Len Butler in 1976.
Robbie had three children – Claire, Grant and Martin.
The siblings had a wonderful upbringing, Claire said, and Robbie was an amazing mother.
She was a devoted grandmother to Zac, Ginger, TJ, Jesse and Coen.
Robbie gave her time to the community too including an almost 30-year commitment as a Telecross volunteer.
Robbie, a creative person and accomplished cook, was adept at pulling together parties, celebrations and fundraisers with very little.
It was while living in Albury that Robbie’s passion for consumer advocacy developed.
It all started when a packet of rice crackers scanned incorrectly during the early days of barcode scanners.
Robbie went on to spearhead a rally in Albury and initiate a national survey to find the cheapest supermarket in Australia.
Appearances on the The Midday Show thrust Robbie into the national spotlight.
She received a call from Ray Martin’s office out of the blue inviting her on The Midday Show to talk about consumer issues.
Robbie’s message resonated with young families and she appeared on The Midday Show an average of three times a year for about five years.
The Butlers moved to Port Macquarie in 1988 and Robbie became active in the community.
She joined Port Macquarie High School P & C and organised functions involving the school band.
Robbie decided to sing with the school band at one of the functions.
Singing soon became an important part of Robbie’s life.
Robbie entertained at community events, nursing homes and retirement villages.
She performed solo at first and then as a member of Three’s Company, Adam and the Antiques and duo Magic2getheR.
Her days as columnist in Port Macquarie started with the Holiday Coast Pictorial.
For the past nine years, Robbie dedicated her time each month to contribute the Robyn's Spot article to be published in Greater Port Macquarie Focus.
Jay and Louise Beaumont and the Greater Port Macquarie Focus crew paid tribute to Robbie.
“Robyn's findings, news, special mentions, recipes and local commentary was eagerly read every month by her loyal fans and followers,” they said.
“On behalf of the team, thank you for being a true influencer of the social scene, a community champion and loyal contributor.”
Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams said Robbie was able to light up a room with her smile and she brightened our lives with her heartfelt generosity.
“Her vivacious personality and effervescent spirit brought joy to all her knew her,” Mrs Williams said.
“Robbie’s ability to entertain with her lovely voice and gift for sharing a joke or tall tale kept her audiences wanting more.
“Along with her band members, the Antiques, we always left the best to last and her finale was always a hit at our Seniors Concerts.
“Her sudden passing last week will leave such a void in our community.”
Mrs Williams extended her heartfelt sympathies to Robbie’s family and many many friends.
Robbie’s family thanked everyone for their outpouring of support.