Our story begins in 1947 around the time Jackie Robinson signs with the Brooklyn Dodgers (and later that month begins playing), becoming the first African American Major League Baseball player since the 1880s; and as Secretary of State George Marshall outlines the Marshall Plan for American reconstruction and relief aid to Europe.Bernie was diligent in his intent to deliver unparalleled client service. He built a legacy by bringing others into the firm who shared that same passion for making clients expect to receive the unexpected by delivering exceptional value. With the addition of Joe Robinson, Bernie’s brother, in 1949 and Joe Kent the following year a partnership was born. Bernie, Joe R. and Joe K. practiced and prospered together for nearly 40 years. The firm developed a reputation for excellence in the services performed and advice given. The bond between the firm and its clients was unique and could be described as more of a collaboration of efforts than just providing accounting and tax services.
The firm moved from its downtown location to Muirs Chapel Road in December 1986. Joe R. retired in 1988 and Joe K. in 1989. Although Bernie Robinson retired in 1989, he remained with the firm as a consultant and advisor until he passed away in 1994. The original founding partners transitioned the firm to a successor group consisting of Freddy Robinson (Bernie’s son), Patricia Price and Dan Hayes. These partners and the partners that have since joined the group have adopted the same values of quality and service as the original partners in addition to a commitment to firm growth in order to continually attract high quality professional staff.
Through prosperous and challenging economic times, Bernard Robinson & Company’s focus has been consistent with Bernie’s initial vision. We are honored to still service the descendants of our first three clients since 1947. With our client service driven focus, we have never strived to be the largest public accounting firm, simply the best at exceeding client expectations.
Lory H. Kelley Managing Partner, Tax Partner, CPA
Lory is Bernard Robinson & Company’s Managing Partner with over 20 years of experience in public accounting serving clients and in firm leadership roles. She has experience working in many industries, including residential and commercial real estate and general and specialty contractors. She applies her knowledge and practical ideas to meet the needs of […]
