Roberson, the longtime pastor of Metropolitan Memorial Baptist Church in Ypsilanti and a well-known community activist, died Saturday at his home at age 90.
Obituary
Rev. Dr. S.L. Roberson, 90, passed away peaceful at his home with his loving wife and family by his side on Saturday, December 4, 2010. He was born on March 14, 1920 in Moundville, AL to the late Rev. Garther and Estella (Sears) Roberson, Sr. At an early age, his family moved to Michigan. He was the oldest of six siblings. He was the Pastor of Metropolitan Memorial Full Gospel Baptist Church of Ypsilanti, MI for 56 years. He was the first African American to hold an Executive position as the Personnel Manager at the Ford Motor Company, Ypsilanti Plant for 33 years. A hero to many, and a great community leader, he was a super icon; a beacon of light that shined throughout the community and the nation. He inspired many with his leadership and charisma, yet was a humble servant for his fellowman. His passion was serving the City of Ypsilanti. Pastor Roberson was proud to serve as Chaplin of the Washtenaw County Sheriff Department for 40 years and Chaplin of the Ypsilanti Police Department. His heart was to serve the Lord and his church family. Pastor S.L. Roberson leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Mrs. Hollie M. Roberson (Honey), his daughters Sheriane Davis (Rev. Jimmy Sr.), Angelia Washington (Sanford) Lorain, OH, Anthony Robinson II, Shunda Lanaé Roberson-Curry (Maurice, Sr.), Cynthia Roberson-Clayton (Michael) Charlotte, NC, Garther Roberson III (Katy) Saxton, California, and Zadie Cotton; and the grandfather to over five generations. Siblings, Rev. Garther Roberson (June), Evelyn Louise Nelson (Robert) Kansas City, KS; nieces, nephews, Godchildren and a host of spiritual sons and daughters, and many special friends. Preceding him in death was his sister Gatheroina Roberson, and brothers Walter Paul and Harold Roberson. Victory Celebrations will begin on Thursday, December 16, 2010 - Visitation from 2-5 p.m., Civic & Community Program begins at 5 p.m. at New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, 2345 Tyler Road, Ypsilanti were the Rev. J. Nathaniel Crout serves as Pastor. A musical tribute will be held on Friday, December 17, at 7 p.m. at Metropolitan Memorial Full Gospel Baptist Church. The family hour will be held on Saturday, December 18, 9 a.m. with Victory Celebration beginning at 10 am at Metropolitan Memorial Full Gospel Baptist Church, 431 Hawkins Street, Ypsilanti where the late Rev. Dr. S.L. Roberson served as Pastor. There will be overflow seating at Mt. Olive COGIC (directly across the street) where the services will be streamed where Supt. Willie J. Sheard is pastor. Entombment is to follow at United Memorial Gardens, Plymouth. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be sent to Ypsilanti Public Schools Foundation, 1885 Packard Rd. Ypsilanti designated for the Rev. Dr. S.L. Roberson Memorial. Arrangements entrusted to C & H Community Home for Funerals, Lucille's Memorial Chapel, 411 S. Adams St., Ypsilanti. Please sign guestbook at http://www.chfuneral.com
