Westlake High drum major creates video tribute to late principal

Jamar Robinson was a charismatic leader and former high school and college drum major who cheered his students’ accomplishments and encouraged them to strive for their best.

The Westlake High School band has captured his personality in a video tribute to the beloved principal, the Fulton County school system said Thursday.

Robinson and his wife, Ann, died Sunday while on vacation in Puerto Rico. Ann Robinson, a Georgia State University professor, went under water and her husband tried to save her, according to reports. Neither survived.

The Robinsons, who met at Florida A&M University, were both remembered for their accomplishments in the classroom, both as educators and learners, as well as their work to give back to others.

Set to music from the FAMU band, the video shared on social media highlighted Robinson’s days as a drum major, husband and father, and a spirited principal. Westlake drum major Raquel Russell created the video, according to the president of the school’s band booster club.

The city of South Fulton shared the video, urging those watching it to “have some tissues handy.”

Tributes continued Thursday for the Robinsons, who are survived by teenage sons and several other relatives. A family friend created a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral costs. The family must retrieve the couple’s remains by Saturday.

“Funds are needed to ensure this beautiful couple can be flown home and their children Jaren and Jordan have immediate resolve and closure,” the fundraising page states.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.