DOVER — David Allan Roberts,

known as “Allan” to friends and family, passed away April 22, 2021 at home on his farm near Dover, Ark., after a long and hard-fought battle with kidney disease. He was surrounded in comfort by the family he cherished. Allan was born October 19, 1954 in Blytheville, Ark., to (and predeceased by) his parents, John Hershel Roberts and Glenadel Richardson Roberts.

He is survived by two daughters: Lily Roberts (fiancé, Bryan Landowski) of San Diego, Calif., and Tina Bosley of Dover, Ark.; two sons: Greg Roberts (wife Audra) and Cort Bosley of Dover; grandchildren, Cole and Cara Bosley and Emersyn Roberts of Dover; two sisters: Kay (Tom) May of North Little Rock, and Ann (Ronnie) McDougal of Fairfield Bay; his brother (and kidney donor hero), John (Debbie) Roberts of Tulsa, Okla.; and his long-time companion and travel partner, Mary Ann Barron (and son, Eric) of North Little Rock.

Allan attended Northeast High School in North Little Rock, Southwestern University (now Rhodes College) in Memphis, Tenn., the University of Arkansas Fayetteville, and the University of Arkansas Little Rock. He became a successful business owner and proudly built the Dixie/Delta Café in many locations across Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. He served as CEO until closing the restaurants in 2017. He also built Diego’s Hog’s Breath Cantina in Little Rock as well as Firefall Grill in North Little Rock.

He was a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, partner, and most of all, father. He was a sports enthusiast and avid Razorback fan. He loved to fish and hunt, passing that love of the outdoors and wildlife to his children. He was a conservationist, rancher, and forester. He involved himself deeply in national and state politics and was active in Arkansas legislative initiatives that impacted small businesses throughout the state.

Allan was a kind and caring mentor, often thought of respectfully as a “second father” and an enthusiastic business partner, who will be remembered especially for his generosity. It is truly a privilege and blessing to have been so lucky to know and love such a brilliant man. He will be greatly missed as he continues peacefully onto the next chapter of his epic journey.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later date. You may plant a tree to honor Allan using the link provided. Allan said he looks forward to seeing us again, but to be sure and take our time and enjoy. Until we meet again…

Arrangements by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.

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