March 05, 2007
In Memory of Robert Busby Jr 1946-2007
Robert Perry Busby, respected and beloved community leader and businessman, died tragically on February 27.
Robert was an invigorating presence in North Lansing starting in the mid-1970s, when he bought and rehabilitated the first of five buildings on Turner Street. He met many kindred spirits, including Barb Morris, Dave Kleis and Ed Hall, through the art program at Lansing Community College. He started an art and performance gallery called Two Doors Down, a vibrant place for poets, musicians and artists. The gallery was the precursor to the Old Town Business and Art Development Association. Robert presided over the association for many years as it grew to develop Old Town JazzFest and other events. His persistence led to the neighborhood's revitalization and earned him the title of "The Mayor of Old Town."
Robert was born Sept. 9, 1946, in Lansing. His family moved to Martin, Tenn., and Robert left to join the U.S. Air Force from 1964 to 1968. He returned to Lansing to work at General Motors, retiring as a model maker. In 1998, he opened his second art and performance venue, Creole Gallery, which has grown into a place where the community gathers to see art, live music, theater and poetry. It hosted an art show by Tyree Guyton of the Heidelberg Project, concerts with jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis and many more talented artists.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vercie and Louise Busby, and a brother, Thomas. He leaves behind his loving daughter, Ena Marie Busby; three devoted granddaughters, Monet Alexandria Robinson, Destiny Williams and Gabrielle Symone Busby; and Ena's mother, Paula Busby. Also surviving are four brothers, Vercie of Martin, Tenn.; William (Rebecca) of Portage; Michael (and daughter Michelle) of Lansing, and Jerry, of Memphis; and three sisters, Amy of Martin, Tenn., and Paula (Tommy) and Deborah of Memphis; many other nieces and nephews; and his beloved companion and business partner, Meegan Holland.
Robert served on the city's Historic District Commission and most recently, was appointed by Mayor Virg Bernero to head up his transition committee on arts, culture, entertainment and tourism. The family is honored that Mayor Bernero and the city will rename the Grand River bridge in Old Town to honor Robert's memory.
Robert's infectious smile and genuine warmth made people of all walks of life feel embraced. He was a visionary who approached life with great dignity and integrity.
Burial arrangements are being made by the Estes-Leadley Funeral Home, 325 W. Washtenaw in downtown Lansing. Visitation is Sunday 2-4 p.m. and Monday 4-8 p.m. A community memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 6, at 3 p.m. in Dart Auditorium on LCC's campus.
Robert loved jazz and Old Town. Memorials can be made either to the Old Town Commercial Association in his memory (1232 Turner St., Lansing, MI 48906) or to The Robert P. Busby Jazz Scholarship Fund, School of Music, MSU, East Lansing, MI 48824
Posted by ralston at March 5, 2007 08:59 AM
|
