Jonnie Gay Roberts
Jonnie Gay Roberts, age 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family singing over her, holding her hands, and soaking up every last minute with her. There was nothing she loved more than her family.
Our mom was born on Nov. 26, 1943, in Gorman, Texas to Elmon and Cloda Wayland. Jonnie’s love of shiny objects was obvious when as a toddler she insisted on being carried facing toward the shop windows.
Our mom moved from Fort Worth to Coahoma, Texas, at the beginning of 8th grade where she grew up with her cherished older brother Ronnie (who sadly passed away at age 31 and whose loss she felt for the rest of her life). She was a born entertainer and led the Coahoma High School band as the Drum Majorette. Being much loved, she was chosen as the CHS Band Sweetheart and, to the surprise of her classmates, won the Future Homemaker of America award (based on an essay contest, and thankfully not a bake-off).
Our mom met the love of her life EJ Roberts in Coahoma (sadly, Elvis wasn’t available). She always said she thought he was “okay, but he had the hottest car in town”. It must have worked out because on February 3rd of this year, they celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. My dad says that ‘54 Ford bought him the best years of his life.
Our mom has three “beautiful daughters” who grew up in San Angelo: Shelley, Shana, and Sherrey. She encouraged and supported every single endeavor that we tried. She was our cheerleader, confidant, and number one fan (and we never doubted that for one minute).
Our mom retired from the San Angelo State School, where she worked with volunteers making each one feel valued and appreciated. She loved spoiling the clients out there, even scavenging up a blue guitar as a special Christmas gift back before there was Amazon shopping or internet searches.
Our mom loved her grandchildren: Aubrey, Kathleen, Lane, Shelby, Sara, and Mia. Being retired allowed her to spend time with them and celebrate their accomplishments.
Our mom made retirement look fun, spending time with our dad and taking frequent trips to Las Vegas. She loved to laugh and wasn’t afraid to be silly. She made time for her girlfriends with happy hours and Friday Fun Days. She loved to “sparkle” with bright colors and fun accessories. If you have stock in HSN or QVC, we’re sorry for your loss.
Our mom loved Elvis, cool cars, Jesus, Las Vegas, her family, and friends, but maybe not in that order.
Our mom is preceded in death by her parents, Elmon and Cloda Wayland, her older brother Ronnie M. Wayland. She is survived by her loving husband, EJ Roberts, and three daughters and beloved sons-in-law: Shelley and Brent Jenkins of San Angelo, Shana and Lance Gilley of Weatherford, TX, and Sherrey and Tony Martino of Chicago, IL. She is survived by six grandchildren: Aubrey Ward (and fiance James Pevey), Kathleen Jenkins, Lane Gilley, Shelby Gilley, Sara Martino, and Mia Martino. She is also survived by her four nieces and nephews: Terri Wayland, Tiffany Grant, Joe Wayland, and Ron Wayland.
Our mom made everyone who met her feel special, from her family and friends to people working at the counter. She opened her home and heart to anyone or anything that needed a soft place to land, including animals. In lieu of flowers, we would like to ask that donations be made to Concho Valley PAWS or the charity of your choice in Jonnie’s honor.
Our mom will be celebrated with a Visitation at Harper’s Funeral Home on Monday, March 22 from 6-8 p.m. and a funeral service held in the Chapel at Harper’s on Tuesday, March 23 at 10:30 a.m. She’ll be laid to rest in Fairmount Cemetery.
Family and friends can share online condolences at www.harper-funeralhome.com