On February 8, 2025, our mom, Carol Roberson, passed away at the age of 84. She was born in Oil City, Pennsylvania, on October 20, 1940. After a quick downturn due to dementia, she died quietly and peacefully on February 8, 2025. Our Dad, Dick Roberson, passed away in 2019. They were married for 59 years, and we’re grateful they are together again.
Our parents adopted us in 1975. Our family started in Clovis but moved to Madera Ranchos. In the winters, our folks took us to Yosemite for snow skiing, and for many summers, we spent weeks camping at Lake Almanor, looking up at Mt. Shasta in the distance. We spent many hours traveling in the RV, visiting family in Idaho, Arizona, and all over California.
For forty years, Mom was a proud teacher in Clovis and Fresno. She taught many elementary and middle school classes; her favorite subject was U.S. History. Mom worked for the Fresno School District for their Mentor Teacher program at the end of her tenure. A presence throughout the district, she brought her expertise to the Science Fair, the Teachers’ Union, and numerous other extracurricular activities until her retirement in 2009.
Mom leaves behind many family and friends, who each carry her in their memories. I’ll never forget our first Christmas in 1976 at the house on Twain. That tiny little house was filled with people from all over California, our new aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents, who came to celebrate the holiday and welcome us into the family. It was a heartwarming and magical time.
I want to thank my sister, Christine, for being a patient and devoted caregiver to Mom and Dad. Because my family and I live in Michigan, I’ve depended on her to be there over the years, keeping an eye on everything as our folks age. I’m profoundly amazed and grateful for her skills as a Registered Nurse and impressed by her ability to navigate the muddy waters of doctors’ appointments, procedures, medications, insurance companies, and Medicare, all while maintaining her health, job, home, and family. Because of her goodness and compassion, Mom and Dad lived their final years in safety and comfort.
Rest in Peace, Mom. You taught us a great deal, and we’re deeply grateful for the life you and Dad provided for us.