Wesley B. Roberts

WESLEY B. ROBERTS Former State Representative, Wesley Roberts, 81, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2007, surrounded by his family, in Austin, Texas. Wesley loved his state and dedicated half a century of his life to the people of Texas through his work as a member of the Texas House of Representatives and as a respected lobbyist. When running for public office, his campaign slogan was "Honest, capable, and experienced.” He lived up to those words. Wesley represented the 99th district in West Texas from 1957-1963. Wes was known as the "godfather" of the legislative roundtable breakfasts at the Driskill, and later the Stephen F. Austin Hotel, a session tradition that began in 1965 and continues to this day. His clients included Southwest Airlines, the Texas Forestry Association, Entex/CenterPoint, Atmos Energy and the Texas Statewide Telephone Cooperative. Wesley Brownlee Roberts was born in Knott, Texas on January 3, 1926 to Lena and Charles Roberts. He was the last surviving of six Roberts brothers and sisters, and made Austin his home in 1965. He grew up in Andrews, where his family ran the Andrews County News and later created Roberts Publishing, which continues to publish newspapers in West Texas cities today. He was also an Exxon bulk plant distributor in Seminole, Texas during the 1950’s and 60’s. Wes enjoyed every aspect of his life. He was a World War II Navy sailor, played football at Baylor, was a skillful hunter, fisherman and golfer, and a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Wesley Roberts cared about people, and valued his friendships. He was a big guy in many ways and great friend to have. His many friends, along with his family, mourn his passing and will miss his constant smile. Wesley cherished his family above everything else. He is survived by his wife, Flora Mae Nance Ferguson Roberts, his children, Charles Wesley Roberts; Lida Lee Roberts Bridgers and husband Chris, Suzanna Klingemann and husband Carol; Scott Ferguson; Julie Sayers and husband Scott, along with eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. A viewing will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 1 at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home. Services and burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 2 at the Texas State Cemetery. A reception for family and friends will take place at the State Cemetery gallery following his burial. Donations are requested in Wesley’s honor to Baylor Scholarship Funds, Odyssey Hospice or the Friends of the Texas State Cemetery. Obituary and guestbook online at wcfish.com