Colin Eugene Robertson

Colin Eugene “Zeke” Robertson, 89, of Celebration, Florida, formerly of Jonesville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully following a lengthy battle with dementia.

A faithful man of God, devoted husband, proud North Carolinian, gifted musician, Army veteran, businessman, and accomplished golfer, Zeke lived a life defined by laughter, music, family, and unwavering faith. Whether he was entertaining friends with a story, playing the piano by ear, singing Southern Gospel music, or passionately defending North Carolina as the greatest state in the nation, he embraced life with enthusiasm, conviction, and a smile that drew people in.

Born on May 31, 1937, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Zeke was the youngest of four sons born to the late Bailey Daniel Robertson and Vesta Hudson Robertson. He proudly served his country in the United States Army before returning home to North Carolina, where he built the life and family he cherished.

For more than 30 years, Zeke enjoyed a successful career in the automotive dealership industry, where his outgoing personality, integrity, and gift for conversation made him a natural fit. Later, he fulfilled a dream of owning his own business when he and his brother, Chuck, operated Atlas Auto Parts in King, North Carolina.

Music was one of God’s greatest gifts to Zeke. Without ever learning to read music, he taught himself to play the piano entirely by ear. Blessed with a rich singing voice as well, he spent much of the 1960s and 1970s traveling throughout the Southeast as pianist and vocalist with Southern Gospel groups, including The Voyagers and The Pilots Quartet. Together they recorded several gospel albums, using their music to glorify God and encourage audiences throughout the Southeast.

Few things brought Zeke greater joy than his beloved North Carolina. Although life occasionally took him elsewhere, his heart never left home. He firmly believed North Carolina had the best barbecue, the sweetest iced tea, the finest people, and—without question—the greatest ACC basketball teams. He never hesitated to defend his beloved state and would gladly debate anyone who disagreed, always with a twinkle in his eye and usually with a joke close behind.

Golf was one of Zeke’s greatest passions. He loved the game, the friendships it fostered, and every opportunity to spend a day on the course. A talented golfer, he continued playing well into his early 80s and was still shooting just three or four strokes above par, a remarkable accomplishment that brought him great satisfaction.

Zeke was also legendary for his love of a bargain. He delighted in getting almost anything at a discount, but if it happened to be free, all the better. Meals were his favorite prize, and to the amazement of his family, he had an almost unbelievable knack for enjoying complimentary lunches and dinners. Whether it was his Southern charm, his gift of conversation, or simply good fortune, no one ever quite figured out how he managed it—but everyone enjoyed the stories that followed.

Zeke was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Lou Robertson; his parents, Bailey Daniel Robertson and Vesta Hudson Robertson; his brothers, James “Jim” Robertson, Donald Robertson, and Carroll “Chuck” Robertson; and his niece, Carmel Robertson Hall.

He is survived by his daughters, Debra “Debbie” Robertson Reardon, Shannon Robertson Hoefen Cerasoli and his son-in-law, Michael Cerasoli; his cherished granddaughter, Landry Lynn Cerasoli; his daughter of the heart, Angela Byrne; his nephews, Dean Robertson and his wife, Karrie, and Jeff Robertson and his wife, Becky; and his nieces, Donna Caudle and her husband, Daryl, and Robin Robertson.

Graveside services will be conducted by Slate Funeral Home in King, North Carolina.

Zeke will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Mary Lou, in King, North Carolina. He will finally be home.

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