Patsy Nell Roberts

Murray Dillon Roberts, known as "Patsy," passed away on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2009, at her home in St. James Place. Born in New Orleans, she and John T. "Johnny" Roberts were married on Dec. 6, 1943, and moved to Baton Rouge following World War II. Patsy was a graduate of Newcomb College, a member of Phi Mu sorority, and active in many organizations. She was a devoted supporter of the Baton Rouge Symphony and Little Theatre. For many years she taught Sunday school and led a Women's Circle at First Presbyterian Church. When Johnny was international president of Kiwanis International from 1982-1983, they traveled the world extensively, meeting heads of state (including President Ronald Reagan) and making friends wherever they went. These were some of her fondest memories. Preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Murray J. Dillon and Vertilee Apffel Dillon; beloved husband of 57 years, John Taylor Roberts; daughter, Laurie Hamner; and sister, Doris Rose. Survived by her sister, Merle Schreiber; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Roberts, of Charlottesville, Va.; four daughters, Marcia Cecil and spouse Bill, of Seattle, Kathy Moody and spouse Michael, of Baton Rouge, Carolyn Drake and spouse George Newton Jr., of Shreveport, and Sharon Gibson and spouse Daniel, of Minden; son-in-law, James Hamner, of Atlanta; 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Also survived by a niece and four nephews. Patsy was a kind and gracious lady whose strong faith, beautiful smile and warm personality will be greatly missed by her many friends and family. Her daughters would like to acknowledge and thank the caregiver team and the residents and staff at St. James Place who were so devoted to patsy. A service celebrating Patsy's life will be at First Presbyterian Church on Friday, Aug. 7, at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m. Visitation at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St., on Thursday, Aug. 6, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the First Presbyterian Church Foundation, John T. Roberts Kiwanis Fellowship, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Hospice of Baton Rouge or a charity of the donor's choice.