Kay Detwiler Roberson

Kay Sara Clarice Detwiler was born in Baltimore, Maryland on December 26, 1937. Her family moved often but she called Cape Charles, Virginia home for most of her youth. Being smart and advancing more than a grade level with each move, Kay enrolled in the School of Pharmacy at The Medical College of Virginia at age 16. There she met the love of her life, Don Roberson, a first year medical student. They were married two weeks after their graduations on June 21, 1958. Kay supported Don through his residency in Birmingham, AL. They then spent two years at Fort Knox, KY, where their children, Charles and Donna, were born.

Kay and Don chose to live and raise their family in Charlotte, NC. Kay was an active member in the Republican Women’s Club, the Speech and Hearing Center, the Medical Auxiliary and the Foxcroft Tennis Team. She and Don (because they were always their best partners) were instrumental in starting Charlotte Latin School in 1970 where Kay served as school nurse and cookbook editor among many other worthy, volunteer positions.

But Kay was forever changed in 1971 when she surrendered her life to Christ. Desiring to have God at the center of their lives and family, Kay and Don were privileged to join 5 other families and begin The Church at Charlotte. This body of believers would be her closest friends, refuge and the place to hear, learn and practice God’s Word.

Kay was happiest being with her family and loved hosting many holiday celebrations, attending any event of her children and grandchildren, playing tennis, reading, and was the consummate shopper. There was no task she wouldn’t undertake from cake decorating, and sewing to catering many friends’ receptions, weddings and helping to launch a store at their retirement community. If you ever had a meal made by Kay, you experienced her passion for hospitality and her sharing God’s love.

Kay is survived by her husband of 66 years, Don Roberson and her two children; Charlie Roberson (Kim) of Huntsville, AL and Donna Willis (Chuck) of Charlotte, NC. Four grandchildren lovingly called her Gram; Chase Roberson and Alex Roberson of Huntsville, AL, Charlie Willis of Raleigh, NC and Hunter Willis Roach (Aaron) of Louisville, KY.

A service celebrating Kay’s life will be held at McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon Memorial Park on Wednesday, December 4th at 2 PM, with the burial to follow. If you wish to honor Kay with a memorial gift, she supported the work of JAARS, and Samaritan’s Purse.