Lawrence "Larry" Paul Roberts' Obituary
Lawrence Paul Roberts passed away peacefully on Monday, June 22, 2026, after a well-lived life. He was born in 1947 in Boston, Massachusetts. Lawrence, affectionately known as Larry, was the eleventh child of fifteen and the seventh son of eight of James F. Roberts, Sr., and Bertha E. Platt Roberts. This familial connection allowed Larry to adopt the moniker of “7/11”.
Larry was a devoted child, often described by his mother as “clinging to her skirts” in his attempt to maintain proximity. He exhibited unwavering loyalty to his parents and younger siblings, always ready to protect and defend them, embodying the qualities of a true big brother. Growing up in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Larry formed close bonds with three other children in the neighborhood, whom he affectionately referred to as his “other brothers” – Boyce Slayman, Kurt Lewis, and Kenny White.
Upon completing his education at Hyde Park High School, Larry obtained a Machine Shop Diploma/Certificate. He further pursued his studies earning both an associate and bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting. During his early career, Larry worked as a machinist and briefly enlisted in the Army. Subsequently, he married Dorothy Isles and together they welcomed two sons, Lawrence Isles Roberts and Devon Isles Roberts, who brought immense pride to their father.
Larry possessed exceptional manual dexterity. Upon transitioning from the military and leaving the machine tool and dye industry, he embarked on a career as a self-employed general contractor. His success as a contractor eventually advanced him to the role of building manager. During this period Larry married his surviving spouse, Letha Carey Roberts, in 1991. Their union was a time of growth together, and a time of partnership and fellowship in their endeavors of travel, entertaining, and enjoying life together.
In his later years, Larry served with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, retiring as a Highway Lab Technician. Subsequently, he relocated to Marietta, Georgia, where he decided to work at Siggers Commercial Cleaning, Inc. alongside his stepson Brian Siggers due to his desire to remain active despite his retirement.
Known for his impeccable sense of style and aversion to wearing socks, Larry was an affable individual who reveled in socializing with friends and family. He confidently asserted his prowess in dancing and eagerly showcased his hand-dancing abilities. Throughout his life, Larry exemplified the qualities of a devoted husband to Letha, a committed big brother, and was ready to defend and protect his loved ones. He served as a steadfast cheerleader, always acknowledging the achievements of others. As an example, a devoted brother to his brothers, he consistently prioritized family above all else. He was a dresser and dressed to impress in his stylish attire. Larry’s life was filled with cherished moments spent surrounded by family and friends.
He was a professional fisherman. He competed in tournaments with his family of fishermen. They represented Bermuda, in the Club Nautico de San Juan Billfish Tournement, where Larry caught an Atlantic Blue Marlin. They placed second in the international category. Larry fished along the East and South coasts, from Massachusetts to Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and beyond. He shared his love for fishing with his sons, grandchildren, brothers, and friends. His passion for fishing was so profound that he went on two fishing trips in North Carolina with his brothers despite battling a terminal illness at the time.
Larry and Letha loved to travel and spent many summers by the ocean with friends. His favorite vacations were Grenada, Maine, New Hampshire, Nassau, Bahamas, Barbados, and Aruba. He also enjoyed jazz concerts in Saratoga, New York, Florida and Georgia. His favorite R&B artists included Phyllis Hyman, Janet Jackson, The Whispers, and Smokey Robinson. Larry loved the Patriots football team, camping, bowling, horseback riding, dancing, game nights, and video games. He was famous for making apple pie, sweet potato pie, and potato salad. Most of all, he looked forward to spending time with the grandchildren who called him Grandpa and Paco.
Larry will forever be remembered for his unwavering love for family, and his genuine desire to have a good time and laughter. He leaves behind a legacy of caring, attentiveness, and unwavering loyalty to all those around him. He will be remembered as a great man who embraced everyone and included them in the family.
Those of us who were fortunate enough to be in his circle will forever cherish the memory of Larry’s engaging spirit, which has always provided us with comfort and support during difficult times and inclusion in good times.
Larry’s legacy is one of love and care for his family, which was exemplified for his unwavering support, affection and commitment. Beyond being a devoted father, stepfather, and adopted dad, he loved his grandchildren. Passionate about his grandchildren, Larry eagerly shared their accomplishments and expressed his immense pride in them. Larry was a committed friend and showed himself faithful to them all. Husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Larry leaves a legacy of intentional ambition of doing good, living well, and loving completely.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, James F. Roberts, Sr. and Bertha E. Platt Roberts; brothers Joseph, James Jr., Clarence, Tomothy, David, Mark; sisters Martha, Betty, and Shirley.
Larry leaves behind his wife and friend of 38 years, Letha; sons Lawrence I. Roberts, Devon I. Roberts (Krystal), stepsons Otis Siggers (Sharon), Sonya Patton, Brian Siggers, Sr. (Crystal), adopted daughter Kelly Brown-Barrows (Christopher), and grandchildren Joseph Teixeira (Sandra), Kayin Patton, Brian Siggers Jr., Maya Siggers, Noelani Roberts, Khalel Roberts, Sean Roberts, Kaydence Roberts, Alec Roberts, Solomon Pelzer, and great-grandchildren Liam Teixeira, Mia Jean, and E’Ziah Pelzer.
Larry is survived by his loving wife Letha Roberts, remaining siblings Charles Roberts, Sr., Rosetha Roberts Washington, Donna Roberts McManus, Helen Roberts Judah, and Marlene Roberts Coleman, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. May the ponytail (IYKYK) live on!
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 15th 11:00 am at Shaw Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, 775 Hurt Road, Smyrna, GA 30062.
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