I first met Maurice when I was his student at Manhattan High School.  He directed me in a number of shows and became a valued mentor.  Every time I came back to Manhattan I made it a point to see Maurice.  The last time I saw him he came to a reading of a new piece of work of mine.  After the reading he said:  "You're a terrific writer.  Don't give up."  I haven't and I won't...thanks to Maurice.

Maurice I am so sorry I didn't get by to give you another hug.  I remember when I got one of your birds for my Granddaughter and she named it Maurice.  You will be missed.
My brother was in the Wizard of Oz and this last 2 years at Meadowlark I filled his room with pictures and music from that play. It meant so much to him. You are loved.

Mr. Roberts was one of those stand-out teachers who stay with you for your entire life.  I was able to visit with him when I was back in Manhattan for my 50th high school reunion. I have especially fond memories of the Wizard of Oz, when he and Clyde Watson, the art teacher, conspired to create a stupendous set and costumes.  I'm still in love with theater!  Thank you, Mr. Roberts!!

Rest Maurice, until you hear at dawn, 
the low, clear reveille of God.
		
Thank you for your service to this nation.


My maiden name was 
Pat Fair and I had Mr. Roberts for a teacher in high school.  He was the one teacher that made me feel I was  worth something and helped me come out of my shell. I was in several of his productions while in school, and that helped me achieve self esteem.  I proceeded to go on to college and major in theater, but never did anything with it  but ended up teaching 33 years  with special needs kids trying to give them the same ego boost that Mr. Roberts gave me. 
Thank you Mr.Roberts! You made me who I am today. 
Bless you!
Pat Fair Howard 

I could take up several pages expressing my love and deep appreciation for Maurice and what he has meant in my life.   I saw him just this past June when he came to a reading of a new play of mine.  (He always came.)  His last words to me, as he left were:  "You're a great writer, Rick.  Don't EVER give up."  I won't, Mr. Roberts.  I owe you that and so much more.  P.S.  Should you need anything Wolfe please don't hesitate to contact me. 

It was just last week that I chuckled to myself about the three years Mr. Roberts let me take his drama class in High School. I loved those classes. I wasn’t a very good actress. But Mr. Roberts put up with Kent Glasscock and my  shenanigans during that time.  We used to laugh until we cried daily.  We had so much fun. Poor Maurice ,just sat in the back of the class nodding his head.  
He always acted like he believed in me. He encouraged me to try harder, love the art.  
So sad to hear of his passing. I will remember his warm smile and compassion for goofy students.

I was in his classes 1968-1970, was looking forward to trying to connect at the 50 year reunion next summer.😢

I took classes from Maurice from 1969-1972 not because I was a talented actress but because I took 1 class as a freshman to fill in a needed class and fell in love with him, his kindness and his love for teaching!  I saw him some years back and was shocked that he remembered me and always asked my mom about me! He was a wonderful man and heaven will be a better place with him in it! God bless you Mr. Roberts! You will be missed!  💙 

Wolfe I am so sorry to hear about Maurice's passing. You all were a great neighbors to my mom and dad. Sending thoughts and prayers to you all. He will be missed.

OBITUARY

Maurice E. Roberts

April 9, 1928 – August 7, 2019

Hillside Funeral Home West

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