Joyce Richard

James L. Robertson

Jul 29, 1940 - Dec 09, 2023

Greenwood, MS

Former Mississippi Supreme Court Justice James Lawton Robertson, known affectionately as Jimmy, passed away at his Jackson home on December 10, 2023, surrounded by his beloved wife, Linda Thompson Robertson, and their three cherished sons. He was 83. Born in Greenwood, Mississippi, on July 30, 1940, Robertson's journey began as a cub sports reporter in Greenville. His passion for journalism led him to become the editor-in-chief of the Daily Mississippian at Ole Miss, where he fearlessly addressed race-related issues, earning induction into the Ole Miss Hall of Fame. Sidetracked by Harvard Law School, Robertson earned his Juris Doctor in 1965 and returned to Greenville to practice law. His commitment to justice, instilled by his parents, led him to represent a diverse clientele, from school boards to individuals. In 1983, Governor William Winter appointed him to the Mississippi Supreme Court, where he served with literary flair, penning nearly 800 opinions. Post his judicial career, he contributed to legal academia and authored books like "Heroes, Rascals, and the Law" and "Rowdy Boundaries." Beyond his legal prowess, Robertson was an avid jogger, opera enthusiast, and sports fanatic. He leaves behind a legacy of academic, professional, and personal accomplishments, survived by his wife, sons, siblings, and grandchildren. The legal community mourns the loss of Judge Jimmy, a dedicated servant of justice.