Wayne Lawrence Roberts

After proudly serving in the United States Navy, Wayne spent several years searching for his place and purpose in the world. In 1965, a road construction job led him to Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he met Mary Allene Holliday and her five children. In God’s perfect timing, Wayne found what he had been searching for. He and Allene married that same year, and those five children instantly became his own. One year later, they welcomed another child, completing their family of six.

For the next twenty years, Wayne and Allene worked tirelessly and sacrificed deeply to give their children a better start in life than they had had themselves. Raising that big, lively, and often stubborn bunch was no easy task. Many would have walked away—but not Wayne. Though not a perfect man, quitting was never in his nature. He taught by example that the world owed nothing and that hard work and perseverance were the foundation of a life well lived. “Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” — Proverbs 13:11

Through dedication and grit, Wayne and Allene eventually purchased a piece of land with a million-dollar view of the Poteau Mountains. Together, with their own hands and while still working full-time jobs, they built a home that became a refuge for their growing family. After retirement, Wayne quickly realized rest wasn’t in his nature and started a small fabrication business with his eldest son. His work ethic remained steadfast his entire life.

Wayne had a deep love for gardening and became known to many as the “tomato man.” He joyfully gave away countless sacks of tomatoes—never seeking recognition, only wanting to bless others. He had a heart for people who, in his eyes, didn’t get a fair shake in life, and he quietly found ways to support and encourage them.

His favorite place was his front porch, sitting with his devoted companion, Ollie, gazing at “their mountains.” To the very end, Wayne was planning his next project and offering guidance—always wanting to build, improve, and help.

As Vince Gill sang, “Go rest high on that mountain, your work on earth is done.” Wayne has earned his rest.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Rosa Roberts; his beloved wife of fifty-five years, Allene; and his daughter, Regina.

He is survived by two sisters, Phyllis Ford and Lois Copple; one brother, Ed Roberts Jr. (Pat); sons Clifford Allen and Mark Plymale; daughters Karla Coplin (Dee), Shelly Smith (Mike), and Robin Sample (Alan); fifteen grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

At Wayne’s request, please no flowers. Memorials may be made in his honor to: Gospel Rescue Mission, 201 Drennen St, Van Buren, AR 72956

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11:00 am at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 4211 State Line Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72916.