This is my speech I gave at Robby's funeral June 11, 2005:
Robert Jerome Johnson, Jr., also known as Robby, Rob, and the Picture Man touched the hearts of many and leaves behind a legacy that everyone that was close to him can be proud of. My brother and I were closer than words could describe. We confided in each other and we shared moments that many people would never be able to say they have. My brother had many passions and was always thinking of his next business venture. Despite his busy schedule, he always managed to make time for the ones he loved the most. Without a doubt, his daughter Jasmine was the most important person in his life. Every time we talked, he would let me know how great my favorite niece was doing. Jasmine, it is important that you know that everything your dad did was for you. He had a vision that one day he would build a dynasty that he could pass on to you and ensure that you did not have to start from the bottom like we did.
I said Jasmine was the most important person in his life because he spent his life trying to secure a future for her. The love he had for his mother was unparalleled and could not be overshadowed by anyone. The difference between the love for his mother and his daughter was that he wanted Mom to have a better today. He wanted to ensure that everyday was a great day for our mother because she gave so much for us while we were growing up.
I think my brother was the luckiest man on Earth because most people only have one opportunity to find a soul mate, but Robby had three. I had a unique opportunity to spend a lot of time with all of them as we grew up. I personally know how much he meant to each of them, but I don’t think they know how much they meant to him.
Margaret: If you are here, you were my best friend for seventeen years. The time Robby spent with you was magical. He loved you dearly, and he wanted things to work out but Robby was always afraid of commitment.
Vikki: I think that you know when Robby first met you, I hated you. I don’t know if it was because of my friendship with Margaret. As I got to know you, we became so close, Robby would get mad. Vikki, you were more than a best friend, you will always be my sister-in-law. Robby loved you so much, but it was his love for you that kept you so far apart. You meant the world to him and no matter what you did to make him mad, he could never stay away from you. You blessed him with two daughters and a lifetime of memories. Thank you.
Nikia: Know that Robby treasured the nine years that you spent together. The relationship that you and Robby had was true love. Most people would never understand your relationship, but take comfort in knowing that Robby did. He told me about every fight you had and each time you made up. You were his love and will be forever.
I have big shoes to fill being the baby brother of such a great man. I know he will watch me from above and guide me through the hard times when all is hopeless. Robby knew a lot of people and he helped those that couldn’t get help elsewhere. He was a pioneer of the picture industry and made an empire doing legal businesses when no one else thought he would succeed. Remember the great things by sharing your stories and by continuing to do good things with the knowledge he imparted in you.
You will be missed by all.