David Beaumont Roberts, Jr.

David Beaumont Roberts, Jr., age 80, who died Oct 23rd 2020 in Raleigh NC was a beloved husband, father, faithful follower of Jesus, and friend to the poor. If one’s life can be measured by all those who were touched by it, then Dave’s is a testament to a cherished life indeed. He was born February 9, 1940 in Hartford, Connecticut, the only child of Elizabeth Alice [Walsh] Roberts and David Beaumont Roberts. His early childhood was spent on Hibiscus Island, Florida where he began school. His childhood was filled with travel experiences with his parents all over the western U.S. His family later settled in western NC in Hendersonville, where he attended Asheville School for Boys thru 11 grade and then completed his last high school year in London. England. Returning to his native home, Dave attended Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, where he received a B.S. in Math and Psychology in 1965. That same year Dave joined the U.S. Air Force, specializing in Meteorology. At this time he met his beloved wife of 53 years, Peggy, at Texas A M University in Meteorology school, and it was love at first sight. He served his country honorably in the Vietnam War, earning a Bronze Star for his weather skills. His desire to travel took he and Peggy from SE Asia to Australia, and upon completing active duty, spent several months camping around the western U.S. with only a camper and a TR-6. From an early age Dave loved photography, taking pictures of nature and portraiture everywhere he traveled. Continuing his education, Dave received a MA Ed in Vocational Rehabilitation from East Carolina in May 1973, planning to help people find work and their true talents. Dave and Peggy then settled down in central Florida, proudly having two wonderful daughters, Christina Marie and Michele Denise. The family enjoyed swimming and sailing on the Gulf of Mexico, and sunny days and an occasional trip to the Dunkin Donuts counter as a special treat. Later the family moved to NC to be closer to his mother, as his father had passed away in 1967. His interest in nature culminated in developing growing systems for hydroponic gardening techniques. Always a thinker and a dreamer, Dave pursued various inventions, holding patents and trademarks on several ideas. He also loved gardening. Dave’s desire to help people manifested later in life with reaching out to those most vulnerable. He lived the Gospel and believed his mission was to bring Jesus to people through words and selfless deeds. It is not always popular to seek out society’s outcasts, but Dave believed in Christian charity by helping the local homeless population for many years. His ministry to the poor and disenfranchised allowed many to get help, comfort, and gave them hope that others cared. Dave loved to study the Bible, and had a special devotion to the Holy Spirit and Mary, never losing sight of our purpose on Earth, to serve the Lord and each other. Dave loved his grandchildren, Erin and Joshua, and they loved their Pawpaw. Playing Monopoly together was always a fun time, and trips to the park to watch them swing and play were memories to cherish. A life-long learner, Dave imparted that to his grandchildren, with the last gifts he gave being beautiful dictionaries. In later life Dave was not able to be as active as he once was, but the people he did come in contact know of his virtuous heart, his hearty laugh and ready smile. His parents would be proud. Dave is survived by his dear wife, Margaret Mary(Peggy), daughter, Christina (Foley) with husband Brad, of Summerfield, NC, daughter Michele Roberts, of Greenville, NC. and grandchildren Erin Elizabeth and Joshua Taylor Foley. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Mother of the Church Catholic Church in Garner, NC November 14th at 2:00 PM. Inurnment will be at the VA cemetery in Goldsboro at a later date. Memorial donations can be made in Daves name to the Foundation of Hope at 919 537-3818, or SARDAA at 2308 Mount Vernon Ave, Suite 207, Alexandria VA 22301-1328.