Cecil Lynn Roberts

Cecil Lynn Roberts passed away peacefully Sunday morning at his home in Tabiona, just down the road from his grandmother’s home, where he was born 94 years earlier. He was born to Clifford and Florence Roberts and was raised in the Tabiona Valley, where he developed the work ethic, resilience, and character that defined his life.

Cecil was the eldest of six children and grew up in humble circumstances along the Duchesne River. His early years were marked by hard work—hauling water, cutting wood, tending sheep, and later helping build and run the family’s dairy operation. From a young age he learned responsibility and self-reliance, often working long hours before and after school. Though his childhood was not easy, it instilled in him a quiet strength and determination that stayed with him throughout his life.

He attended the Tabiona School where he participated in athletics. After graduating from high school in 1950, Cecil briefly attended Utah State Agricultural College before choosing to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was called to the Northwestern States Mission, serving in Washington and Oregon, an experience that deeply shaped his faith and perspective.

When he returned from his mission, he received draft papers inviting him to serve in the United States Army. His military service played an important role in his life, helping expand his worldview and providing for his education.

He enrolled at BYU after the Army, where he was a member of the “Bachelors over 25 Mutual Assistance Association.” It was at BYU that he began talking to Sheila Steenblik in the registration line. They started dating and were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on January 15, 1960. They eventually settled in Riverdale, where they raised six children (all of whom he gave the middle name of Lynn).

A farmer at heart, Cecil always had a large garden, which provided much work for his children. He loved to hunt, fish, and spend time with his family, particularly when ice cream was involved. He had quite the sweet tooth; all the grandkids will miss teasing him about his “sneaky treats.”

Cecil relished his time serving with Bishop Gayle Sanders in the bishopric of the Riverdale 1st Ward. He enjoyed visiting with fellow church members and was often the last one to leave the building on Sunday, much to the consternation of his children. He could always be counted on to provide a warm greeting to all at every event.

He worked side-by-side with his sweetheart, Sheila, running Roberts Wig Shoppe in Ogden for over 40 years. After their retirement they served four full-time missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They first served as service missionaries in the Jefferson Ward in Ogden, then at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, then in the South Dakota Rapid City Mission where they labored in Gettysburg, South Dakota, and finally as stay-at-home missionaries in the Duchesne Stake in the Provo Utah Mission.

Cecil lived a life defined by service and kindness. Known for his warm heart and ever-present friendly smile, Cecil had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued. Cecil’s firm handshakes, tight hugs, and ability to connect with family, friends, and even strangers will surely be missed. His legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire all those who knew him.

Cecil is preceded in death by his parents; Clifford and Florence Roberts; brothers, Roland and LeRoy; sister, LaMay; and granddaughter, Audrey. He is survived by his sister, NaDean; brother, John; wife, Sheila; children Charles (Marie), Roger, Stephen (Becky), Julie (Don Tower), Benjamin, Jeffery (Tara); 15 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Heber Valley Funeral Home at 288 N Main St., Heber City, UT 84032. On Saturday, May 9, 2026 a viewing will be held at the Tabiona Chapel at 3750 37900 W, Tabiona, UT 84072 from 10:00 AM - 11:45  AM with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 PM. Interment will take place following the services at Tabiona Cemetery.