Walter Roberts

Walter Twyman Roberts, 84, of Lead Hill—also known as “Uncle Walt” to many, or “Grandpa Rock-n-Roll” to his grandchildren—passed from this life into his eternal one on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Arkansas State Veterans Home in Fayetteville.

A son of Ernest Lee and Margaret Maxine Chatham Roberts, he was born July 2, 1941, at Lake Village, Arkansas. Mr. Roberts was a proud United States Army Veteran of the Vietnam War and a man deeply devoted to his country. Him and three of his brothers were proudly serving their country at the same time—two in the Army and two in the Navy. His patriotism was evident in everything he did, and he carried great pride in having served under the American flag. Walter was a traveler at heart. He left home as a young man and joined the circus so he could see the world. He especially enjoyed traveling to Colorado and driving through the mountain passes, and he made several memorable trips to Alaska—traveling the famous Dalton Highway as far north as one could go by vehicle.

He worked for many years as an armed security guard for the Pinkerton Company and also owned and operated a pawn shop for several years. He attended the Lighthouse Bible Church of Diamond City, where he was affectionately called “Uncle Walter.” He loved Bible study and participated in several different study groups, always eager to learn and share his faith.  Walter enjoyed watching football, old westerns, and the news. He loved collecting stamps, fishing, telling war stories, and reminiscing about his travels and adventures. His joyful personality and storytelling spirit left lasting impressions on all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Phyllis Marie Roberts; a son, Tiny Gray; brothers, David, Ray, Wayne, John, and Donald; and sisters, Joyce, Hazel and Mary.

Survivors include his sons, Dale (Carla) Roberts of Harrison, James Gray of Harrison, and Frank and Roger Gray, both of Parkdale; daughters, Beverly (James) Kellebrew of Crossett and Christie (Joel) Tindall of Omaha; 22 grandchildren, Teri Risley, Ricky, Dusty Roberts, Tosha Eli, Santana Greenwood, James Roberts, Brandy May, Randal, J. T., Kyle, Cory Tindall, Kayla Orellana, Jason, Bryan, Matt Kellebrew, Chris, Keith, Kelly, Megan, Amy, Michael Gray, and Jennifer Henslee; an army of great-grandchildren; his sister, Betty Joe Robertson of Banks; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A family conducted memorial celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at The Lighthouse Bible Church of Diamond City, with Pastor Willie Bonsquet officiating.  Arrangements are under the direction of Holt Memorial Chapel.

The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.HoltChapel.com.