William E. Roberts

Our beloved Father, William Eugene Roberts was born to General and Mable Leavelle Roberts on November 12, 1937, in Clarksville, Tennessee. He transitioned on October 11, 2022, at Hospice of Charles County. He was preceded in death by his brother Joseph Bruce Roberts, Jr. and his sister Lela Mae Outlaw. William E. Roberts graduated from the Historic Burt High School Class of 1956. Upon graduation he entered the United States Air Force where he would learn the archival skills that would first land him a job at the Library of Congress in Washington DC, and later at the White House Office of Records Management as one of the earliest African American employees under President John Kennedy. He would serve under eight presidential administrations starting with John F. Kennedy and would retire during the administration of Bill Clinton. While working and raising young children he attended Howard University and DC Teachers College earning his degree in History with a certification in secondary education. He was also a committed community activist. While his children were in school, he served on numerous Parent/Teacher Associations. Though he worked for the federal government, he never gave up on his dream of being a teacher. He taught History at Alice Deale Jr. High School and is fondly remembered for tutoring neighborhood children and organizing trips to the local library. He organized Boy Scout Troop 1592 when he realized that his only son and his classmates did not have a neighborhood troop. He also served on the New Suitland Recreation Council which lobbied the local government successfully for upgraded facilities, organized community fairs, and voter registration drives. He also served as an election judge for Prince George’s County Md. William and Lois Roberts exchanged wedding vows on October 20, 1962. They were blessed with three children Stephanie R. Glenn, Sybil R. Williams, Selwyn A. Roberts and one goddaughter DeShanta C. Smith. He also leaves to cherish precious memories, sister Eura Martha Mallory of Fayetteville North Carolina. Four grandchildren: Whitney Glenn, Robert Glenn, III, Arabia Roberts, and McKenzie Roberts. One great grandchild Ryaire Glenn. And a number of beloved nieces and nephews. The family of William Eugene Roberts will carry the power of his love and gentle devoted guidance all of our lives. His life has been and remains an ongoing celebration and testimony to strength and integrity in each of us.

Tributes

William E. Roberts

November 12, 1937 - October 11, 2022