Raymond Roberts

Raymond was born on June 8, 1936, in Brummitt, Arkansas, to Harrison and Lula Roberts.

A proud and dedicated serviceman, he served with honor in the United States Navy, rising to the esteemed rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. After 23 years of active service, he retired in 1978, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, commitment, and integrity that deeply impacted all who served alongside him.

Following his Navy career, Raymond continued to bring his strong work ethic and dependable spirit to the civilian workforce. He spent meaningful years working with General Dynamics and later with Ball Automotive Group before retiring fully in 2000.

He had an undeniable passion for fishing—nothing made him happier than casting a line into a quiet freshwater lake and reeling in the catch of the day. With a green thumb and a heart for nurturing, he took great pride in his garden, growing fresh fruits and vegetables, especially tomatoes that he often shared with family and friends. He enjoyed listening to Jazz and Blues. At home he would sing the Blues into a microphone, his singing voice booming through the loudspeakers filling the room with soul.

He was profoundly loved by so many—young and old—and will forever be remembered with deep affection and admiration. Whether you knew him as “Big Daddy,” “Papa Bob,“ “Papa Ray,” “Uncle Bob,” “Robbie,” “Ray”, “Bob”, “Mr. Roberts,” or “Master Chief,” his presence left a lasting imprint on every heart he touched. Each name held a story, a connection, and memory that lives on in all of us.

He held a strong bond, love and affection for his Grandchildren, Taylor Madison, Bryan Anthony and Zoey Rose. Their Papa Bob will be sorely missed, remembered always with love and fondness.

Raymond is survived by his Wife, Flocerfida “Cery” Roberts; his children, Robert Mike Roberts and his Wife Sharlene of Milwaukee, WI; Robert Luke (Bob) Roberts and his Wife Cindy of Huntington Beach, CA; Tanya Rena Bivens and her Husband Joseph of Clarksville, TN; Kecia Braggs of Dallas, TX; Bryan Arno Roberts and his Wife Kimberly of Chula Vista, CA; and Stillman Harrison Roberts and his Wife Krystal of San Diego, CA; his Stepchildren, John Marius Lanceta, Jar Marc Lanceta; and Joanna Marie Lanceta Perez and her Husband Steven of San Diego, CA; his Brothers, Cecil Roberts of Altheimer, AR; and Henry Lee Roberts and his Wife Juanette of Stuttgart, AR; He leaves behind a loving large group of his Nieces, Nephews, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren; and his special friends Rubye Roberts and Ed Arledge.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harrison and Lula Roberts; his children Dennise Brooks and Deborah Smith; and his siblings Jessie Bell Roberts, John Henry Roberts, Ruthie Banks, Louis LS Roberts and Uradell Johnson.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, May 1st, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, at the Glenn Abbey Little Chapel of Roses. Interment follows at 2:00 PM at Glen Abbey Memorial Park.

Appreciation:

Our family is deeply touched by the overwhelming love, care, prayers, and heartfelt words we received during Raymond’s time in hospice and through his final moments. Your support has brought comfort, strength, and peace not only to him, but to all of us. We will never forget the compassion shown by each of you during such a special and tender time. We are very grateful for your kindness.