Richard Wayne Roberson

Richard Wayne Roberson, age 80, of Bradford, Arkansas, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on January 24, 2026, while resting peacefully at White River Medical Center. Surrounded by love, Wayne went home to be with Jesus with his devoted wife, Sandra, and his daughter, Jennifer, faithfully by his side. Wayne was born on October 25, 1945, in Judsonia, Arkansas, to James Franklin Roberson and Edith Mae (Turner) Roberson. From an early age, he learned the values of hard work, integrity, and faith, qualities that shaped the man he became and the legacy he leaves behind. A dedicated provider, Wayne worked for many years as a dozer operator and also gave 17 years of faithful service to Union Pacific Railroad. He also proudly served the community by working with the White County Road Department as a road grader operator, helping maintain the roads that so many traveled each day. He retired after a lifetime marked by diligence, reliability, and pride in a job well done. Beyond his work, Wayne found great joy and peace in the land. He was a cattle farmer at heart, cherishing the early mornings, the open fields, and the simple blessings of caring for his livestock. Time spent working his cattle was never just labor to Wayne; it was a way of life and a reflection of his deep appreciation for God’s creation. Wayne found joy in all of God’s creations, including his cherished grand-pup, Cali, whom he lovingly called “Lil’ Bit,” who brought him comfort (especially in his final days on Earth), companionship, and countless happy moments. On April 10, 1964, Wayne married the love of his life, Sandra Lee Piker. For more than six decades, their marriage stood as a testimony of commitment, perseverance, and unconditional love. Together, they built a Christ-centered home filled with laughter, memories, and steadfast devotion to family and faith. Wayne was a loving father to Jeff (Tonya) Roberson of Bradford, Jason (Suzanne) Roberson of Bradford, and Jennifer (Brad) Ives of Tumbling Shoals. He was a proud and deeply devoted grandfather to Matthew (Shelby) Roberson of Bradford, Cassi (John) Bowers of Heber Springs, Jessica (Steven) Shaw of Sulphur Rock, Savannah (Tucker) Murphy of Oil Trough, Bailey (Ryan Pratt) Dunegan of Providence, and Jordan (Amber) Dunegan of Pleasant Plains. Wayne was also blessed with six step-grandchildren: Louis (Lindsey) Calhoun of Southside, Batesville; Samuel Emerson of Clarksville, Tennessee; Preston Pankey of Bradford; Peyton Pankey of Southside; Morgan (Gary) Brumley of Floral; Matthew (Nicole) Ives of Cabot; and Evan (Brian) Rogers of Southside. He was further blessed with 23 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, each a precious gift and blessing from the Lord. His heart overflowed with joy for his growing family, which also included a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends who held a special place in his life. He is also survived by his brothers: Garry (Janis Patterson) Roberson of Searcy, Larry (Brenda) Roberson of Pleasant Plains, and Jerry (Teresa) Roberson of Charlotte. Wayne was a faithful servant of God and served for many years as a Deacon at Lifeline Southern Baptist Church in Pleasant Plains. He lived out his faith humbly, leading by example through service, compassion, and a quiet but unwavering trust in the Lord. His life reflected the words of Scripture: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant sister, Betty Roberson; and a brother, James Roberson. Pallbearers will be Matthew Roberson, Jordan Dunegan, Tucker Murphy, John Bowers, Ryan Pratt, Gary Brumley, Bobby Piker, and Peyton Pankey. Honorary pallbearers will be his fellow deacons and brothers in Christ: Lewie Roy Sutter, Jr., Vernon Woodrow Pearson, and Michael Harris, Sr. Services will be officiated by Rev. Timothy Altom and Bro. Larry Roberson, celebrating Wayne’s life, faith, and eternal homegoing. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice Care, especially CNAs Tabatha and Alexis, Nurse Corey, and Dr. Andryka, for their compassionate care, kindness, and support during Wayne’s final days. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Lifeline Southern Baptist Church in Pleasant Plains. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., also at the church. Though Wayne will be deeply missed here on earth, his family rejoices in the promise of eternal life, knowing that “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). His legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Bradford.

Richard Wayne Roberson

October 25, 1945 - January 24, 2026