R.T. Roberts, Sr., 94, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 6:34 AM on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at his residence.
On August 6, 1931, R.T. was born in Stuttgart, AR to John Arthur and Caroline (Miller) Carroll Roberts. Growing up he shared his childhood as one of nine children.
R.T. and Claudia Welton were married on August 6, 1952, but later divorced. From their union came a beautiful family of 11 children. The family tree continued to grow with a legacy of three more generations.
As a laborer, R.T. worked with U.S. Steel in Gary for 25+ years. Over the years, he enjoyed tending to over 40 acres of land that produced bountiful harvests of various vegetables, fruit, and annuals of all types. Among his favorites were cucumbers, okra, squash, corn, and watermelon. He held great love for all animals.
R.T. cherished his time with his family and was often referred to as Papa Smurf. Listening to music, dancing, and junking for treasures were favorite pastimes. He was an accomplished harmonica player.
Left to cherish R.T.'s memory are his loving children, including four daughters: Denise (Ivy) Joryner of Evansville, Claudette M. Roberts of Delong, Annette (Robert) Ruthridge of Michigan City, Beatrice Roberts of Kings Lake; four sons: R.T. (Betty) Roberts, Jr. of Rochester, Nathan Roberts of North Dakota, John Roberts of Evansville, Justin Roberts of Evansville; sisters: Florence Pittman, Fannie Hill, Nancy Wofford, Laura Thomas; brother, Miles Carroll; daughter-in-law, Heather of Culver; 75 grandchildren, 140 great-grandchildren and 80 great-great-grandchildren.
Preceding R.T. in death are his parents; daughter, Sylvia Clark; sons, William and Daniel Roberts; sister, Pearl Williams; brothers, R.B. Ware and Herman Carroll.
A celebration of the life of R.T. Roberts, Sr. will be at 1:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Norvell Williams will officiate. Visitation will be held two hours prior to service. Interment will be in the Monterey IOOF Cemetery.
