Becky Roberts

Born on September 29, 1938, in Selma, Virginia, Becky was the third of four children of Elizabeth and Robert Hughes Deeds. She grew up in a modest household shaped by both hardship and resilience—qualities that would define her throughout her life. From an early age, Becky was a hard worker around the house, at her grandmother’s cabin in the summer, and at her after school job. Similarly, she was also vigilant about honesty and finding the truth; she became a self-professed atheist at the age of 9 when she shared that the nuns at Sunday school told her that dinosaur bones were made up by people who want us to doubt the existence of God. But she also showed remarkable artistic talent as an illustrator and painter, earning recognition in school publications and even a scholarship offer to the Rhode Island School of Design. Though she was unable to attend, her creativity remained a lifelong passion and gift she passed on to her family.

Becky was known for her strength, determination, and unmistakable sense of style, even into her golden years. She believed in perseverance, had faith in the power of women, took pride in her appearance, and lived life on her own terms. A devoted and hands-on mother, she created a beautiful and lively home filled with music, holiday energy, and memorable traditions. She led Brownie and Girl Scout troops, packed daily school lunches, hosted gatherings for her daughter Reina and her friends, and filled her home with antiques, all kinds of rooster art, and beauty—especially at Christmas, her favorite time of year.

An engaged member of her neighborhood and community, Becky participated in the League of Women Voters (as an impassioned Democrat), was an avid reader, and enjoyed playing bridge and tennis regularly with friends. She was a devoted animal lover and advocate, a passion she passed along in spades to her daughter, Reina. Later, she built a successful career in real estate, where she was known for her dedication and patience (over profit), she was often able to find families their perfect home.

Becky’s generosity and passion extended into her role as a grandmother. Known as “Big Grannie” (our other “Nana” in the family was just under 5 ft.), she delighted in staying connected with her family in California, especially her granddaughters, Emily and Drew. She often sent thoughtful care packages adorned with her signature cartoon alligator and containing what she called “silly gifts,” as well as boxes of homemade fudge, pralines, and shortbread at the holidays. (She was also good for a generous check or two in there somewhere!)

She was strong willed, but also had a playful spirit and a few favorite comforts that those who knew and loved her will always remember—shopping at the mall (with Reina), dancing to Elvis with her relatives, breakfast at Word of Mouth in Sarasota, and a fondness for Jif peanut butter, Lay’s potato chips, and homemade hot fudge sundaes (so easy: just microwaved chocolate chips and 1/2 and 1/2!). She had many sayings but one that seemed to captured her practical, forward-moving nature: “Let’s go so we can get back.” It was her way of keeping things moving—but also, somehow, of reassuring you that wherever you went, you’d find your way home again.

In 2017, Becky and Bob finally divorced after over 50 years of ups and downs in their marriage. Almost simultaneously, she began her battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Despite the difficulties of being on her own, she faced the challenges of memory loss with the same resilience that marked her life. She was cared for with compassion at Harbor Chase Senior Living, where she formed a close and joyful companionship with Nick, who brought light and happiness to all around him, especially to his beloved “wife,” Becky. Besides regular visits by Reina, and sometimes Emily and Drew from California and Oregon, she was also supported consistently by her loving family and neighbors. Especially attentive was her niece Carol and partner, Tony, whose regular visits and care brought comfort, familiarity, and connection to Becky as well as to Reina and her family on the West Coast (via FaceTime calls) during those years. Their presence meant so much to her and to her family.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Reina, her inspired granddaughters Emily and Drew, her brother Robert “Bobby”, her ex-husband Bob, and many extended family members and friends who will remember her for her strength, generosity, creativity, and spirited nature. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, LaVeeta and Betty, both of whom she held close in her heart throughout her life. Becky will be remembered for the way she showed up for those she loved—with energy, determination, and passion. Like the watermelon she loved (with salt, of course), she was firm on the outside yet much softer on the inside. And in her own words, we can imagine she’s simply gone ahead—“so she can get back.” She has finally found her way home.

A private celebration remembrance will be held by her family on July 25, 2026 at 2pm at Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center, 7454 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231. All who loved her are welcome.