Deborah Roberson

Deborah Roberson was born on December 19, 1953, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Alex Little and Josephine Hazelray. She peacefully departed this life on April 21, 2025.

Deborah was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Butler Roberson Jr.; her mother, Josephine Hazelray; her father, Alex Little; her son, Alex Hazelray; her brothers, Henry Hazelray, Robert Hazelray, and James Little; her sisters, Elizabeth Little and Betty Little; two brothers-in-law, Oscar Reddick and Lonzo Roberson; and her parents-in-law, Butler Roberson Sr. and Roberta Roberson.

Deborah was a woman of quiet strength and boundless love. She devoted her life to nurturing and guiding those around her. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. She was more than a mother—she was a friend, a confidant, a guiding light, and the heart of our family.

Her laughter filled our home with joy, and her gentle hands wiped away countless tears. She taught us to love deeply, work hard, and always show kindness. Her legacy is not just in the lives she raised but in the countless lives she touched with her compassion and grace.

She had a heart as big as the world and was always there for those in need. Whether it was offering a hot meal, a comforting word, or simply being a shoulder to lean on, she never turned away someone who needed help. Her selflessness and generosity were felt by many, and her home was always a place of warmth, safety, and unconditional love.

She wasn’t just a mother to her own children—she helped raise countless others in the community. Whether it was babysitting, giving advice, or simply being a stable, loving presence in their lives, she became a second mom and grandmother to many. Her door was always open, and her care knew no bounds. She had a way of making everyone feel like family.

One of her greatest joys in life was spending time with her children and grandchildren. Whether it was sharing stories around the kitchen table, cheering at a school event, or simply enjoying a quiet moment together, her presence was a source of comfort, laughter, and love. Her family was her pride and joy, and she made sure each of us knew how deeply we were loved.

She also had a fun-loving spirit and a sparkle in her eye when it came to her favorite pastime—bingo nights. Whether she was playing to win or just there for the laughs and camaraderie, bingo brought her endless joy and wonderful memories. We’ll forever picture her with a dabber in hand, smiling brightly as she called out “Bingo!” with pride.

Above all, one of the most profound moments in her life was when she accepted Christ as her Savior. Her faith gave her strength, peace, and purpose, especially in her later years. She found comfort in prayer, joy in worship, and hope in the promise of eternal life. Knowing she is now in the presence of the Lord brings us peace beyond understanding.

Though our hearts ache with her absence, we are comforted by the memories we carry and the love she planted so deeply in our souls. Her spirit will live on in every hug we give, every act of kindness we extend, and every tradition she taught us to treasure.

She leaves to cherish her memory: Sons: Charles Roberson Sr. (Natasha), Robert Roberson (Tia), and Joshua Roberson Sr.; Daughters: Brandy Roberson (Brian) and Nashelle Roberson Guinn (Donnelle); Stepdaughter: Celeste Harrell; Granddaughters: Keylayah Hazelray, E’monie Roberson, Alexandria Roberson, Don’shelle Guinn, Donniesha Guinn, Serenity Mills, Lula Thomas, Arya Roberson and Karina LaPrath; Grandsons: Nashawn Roberson, Matthew Benson, Charles Roberson Jr., Jaiden Roberson, Israel Hazelray, Joshua Roberson Jr., Valente Broadus, Kaiden LaPrath, and Kamden LaPrath; Great-grandchildren: Ashad Roberson, Kyrell Roberson, Yaiu’Meya Mitchell, and Yaiu’Nique Mitchell; Nephews: Torrence Hazelray (Kiesha), Micah Joshua Hazelray (Michelle), Raymond Anderson, Henry Anderson, and Michael Anderson; Step-nephew: Michael Roberson Drye Jr.; Nieces: Sarah Jones and Amanda Tolbert; Godsons: Reggie Moody, Charles Robinson and Antonio Johnson; Brother-in-law: Kevin Roberson; Sisters-in-law: Ann Johnson and Sherry Roberson Drye; and a host of other loving family members and friends.

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