Elder Verlon Eugene Roberson's Obituary
Verlon Eugene Roberson was born in Meridian, Oklahoma, to Ruzzell and Clara Cole Roberson. Verlon matriculated through Jackson School in Smith County (Tyler, Texas). Elder Verlon Eugene Roberson “The Honorable”, age 86, transitioned peacefully at home surrounded by family on October 3rd. Without a doubt, he is in the presence of the Lord.
In 1953, Verlon moved to Fort Worth, Texas, to live with his oldest brother and sister-in-law, where he worked as a Fry Cook for Piccadilly Cafeteria and at North Texas Steel. Verlon met, fell in love, and was married to a beautiful young lady, Lo Ethel Redwine, for 50 years until she preceded him in death, after a prolonged illness. To this union, two wonderful children were born, Beverly Jean and Verlon Eugene II. His son, Verlon II, tragically preceded him in death at the young age of 28. This union welcomed five grandchildren: Ursula Lackey (Bobby III), Erica Martinez (Jimmy), Al Watson, Jr. (Erica), Verlon Eugene Roberson III-Trey, and Alexis Vines; nine great-grandchildren: Dayton and Gage Tucker, Bobby Lackey IV, Jade Flores, Juliana Martinez, Obadiah, Elijah and Jacob Harris, and Micah Watson; and one great-great grandson, Malachi Harris.
Verlon was known to his friends and family as Eugene or Gene. He was saved, sanctified, baptized, and filled with the Holy Ghost under the leadership of the late Bishop J.L. Johnson at Greater Progressive C.O.G.I.C. Shortly thereafter, he was called to preach the gospel and served as an associate minister for 47 years. In 2006, Eugene visited The Chosen Vessel and was moved by Bishop Richard E. Young’s message and knew that he wanted to become a member. Afterwards, he was baptized again, in Jesus’ name, and felt that everything was complete. He worked and attended faithfully until the pandemic and his health failed.
Eugene was no stranger to hard work. He spent 10 years at Bell Helicopter, and 28 years at General Motors until he retired. Eugene met, fell in love, and married another beautiful lady, Joyce Battles Smith. They vowed to enjoy the benefits and pleasures of life together until parted by death. They loved to travel and attend events together, often dressed alike. Her daughters, Javaun Renee and Jeneen Raeshaun (Keith), lovingly welcomed him into their family with open arms. Julian and Chandler Sims took great joy in having fun with their grandfather, “Paw Paw”. He was known as their “personal uber driver” as he did school pickups. He also enjoyed spending time with his other bonus children, Jimmy, Natasha, and Dorothy. He could always be found laughing and joking around with all of them, including Paris, Desiree, and Jaxson, teaching them to play dominos (his way!), as well as singing songs, playing the guitar, and having church at home. Some of his favorite songs were, “I’m Free”, “I Will Trust In The Lord’’, and by his pastor, “Never Would Have Made It”.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife; his son; his sons-in-laws: Gregory Vines and Michael Price; his brothers: Elvin Roberson (Sleetie), Otis Carter Roberson (Bernice), Ruzzell Roberson, Jr. (Lila Fay), and Havie Roberson (Theresa); brother-in-law, Leonard Ray McCowin; and his sisters, Velnora Holland (Oscar Van) and Florence Fortson (Antonio).
Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, Joyce; daughters, Beverly Jean Roberson, Javaun Renee Price, and Jeneen Raeshaun Sims (Keith); daughter-in-law, Barbara Roberson; his siblings: Clara Bell Gee (Rodell) of Crowley, Texas, Brenda McCowin of Tyler, Texas, Raymond Roberson (Amanda) of Lancaster, Texas, and Charles Roberson (Lulene) of Richardson, Texas; nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson; godchildren, Jackie Cook, Vincent and April Benn, Marva Harris, and Rita Williams; and a host of family and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Verlon?
What’s a lesson you learned from Verlon?
Share a story where Verlon's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Verlon you’ll never forget.
How did Verlon make you smile?
