Betty Thompson Roebuck

Betty Thompson Roebuck passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2011 in Fort Smith, after a lifetime of good health and always being in a good place with good thoughts. She was born May 19, 1927 to John Richardson, “Coach Long John,” and Marionette Nugent Thompson, both civic leaders in Fort Smith and recipients of the Golden Deeds Award from the Kiwanis Club. She retired from Arkansas Best Corporation, and she was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith. Beloved by everyone who knew her, she was considered one of the most fun and youngest octogenarians. Betty always had a twinkle in her eye and a smile on her face. She was gracious, independent, spirited, down to earth, intelligent, funny, loving, and a “Classy Broad.” Betty had many close friends and neighbors who looked out for her and vice versa. She “held court” on her front porch regularly. She had Monday lunches with her many life-long and dear friends. Also, Betty was a faithful friend of the McGill Center and enjoyed the monthly lunches. Her interests were Fort Smith History, art, animal welfare, family and friends, and politics. She was a life-long Democrat who advocated for what was right and just, recognizing the worth of every individual. She worked diligently for John F. Kennedy and was invited to his inauguration. Betty served on various boards, and started and was president of the local PTA in Houston, TX.

She is survived by her loving children, Lynn Roebuck and John Roebuck both of Fort Smith, Tom and his wife Rebecca Roebuck of Houston, TX; grandchildren, Lewis and wife Amanda of Fort Smith, Monica Roebuck, and Alexis and husband Cody Crutchfield all of Houston, TX. She had four great-grandchildren. Betty is also survived by her faithful cat, Katrina, appropriately named after the hurricane. Mother will be greatly missed by all!

A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 2:00 PM in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Tom Ulrich officiating, Cremation and services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

The family will host a visitation following the celebration in Edwards Chapel.

Memorials may be made to Betty’s favorite charities: Angel Paws Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic P.O. Box 124 Arkoma, OK 74901 and the Sebastian County Humane Society 3800 Kelley Hwy Fort Smith, AR 72904

To sign an online guestbook visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com