W
illiam Thomas Robie defied the odds of a childhood on a plantation, World War II, and racial discrimination as a Black real estate agent in the 1950s. Yet, with an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit, he paved the way for fairer housing policies in Atlanta and earned a national reputation as a trailblazing realtor.

    "A giant in his field," Avery Kenly, president of the Atlanta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Inc., described Robie, who was also a 21-year professor at Clark College. Courtney Johnson of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers called his life's work "a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the enduring fight for justice."

    Born in 1920 on a cotton plantation in Middle Georgia, Robie's education was cut short at 14 due to racial segregation in schools. Undeterred, he joined the U.S. Army, serving with the all-Black 92nd Infantry during World War II. After obtaining his GED and graduating from Clark College as valedictorian, Robie earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan.

    As a real estate agent, Robie faced numerous challenges, including having his license revoked by the Georgia Real Estate Commission for advocating fair housing opportunities for minorities. However, he persevered, becoming president of the Empire Board of Realtists Inc. and serving as board chairman of the Atlanta Business League.

    Robie's legacy extends beyond his business accomplishments. He was a vocal supporter of the Civil Rights Movement, excusing students like Julian Bond and Ben Brown from class to participate in protests. His daughter Katina Campbell remembered her father's unwavering dedication to equality in housing: "It was out of necessity... that was the fundamental purpose of his everyday real estate life."

    Robie passed away on January 8 at the age of 104, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and advocacy for justice.