Richard Roberts Obituary

Richard "Dick" David Roberts, 90, passed away peacefully in his home in Virginia Beach on June 12, 2025. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 63 years, Shirley Hanson Roberts. His surviving family includes daughters Catherine Roberts Dodge of Virginia Beach, Dr. Helen Elizabeth Roberts of Virginia Beach, and Caroline Roberts Darby (Patrick) of Birmingham, Alabama; and grandchildren Richard Townsend Dodge, Andrew Richard Roberts, Patrick Roberts Darby (Kate), Helen Catherine Darby, and John Thomas Darby; and great-grandson Henry Roberts Darby.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts on June 15, 1934, Dick enjoyed sailing and ice hockey and was an Eagle Scout and a state champion on the track team. He attended the United States Naval Academy and was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering in 1956. During his time at the Naval Academy, he met his future wife, Shirley, and they were married in 1957. Dick served five years in the United States Submarine Force and always appreciated the wisdom he obtained during his appointment.
Dick received his Master of Business Administration from Harvard School of Business in 1963, where he was recognized as a Baker Scholar, the school's highest award for academic achievement.
In 1967 Dick accepted a position at Landmark Communications in Norfolk, Virginia where he helped pioneer the company's cable television business. He became President and Chief Executive Officer of TeleCable Corporation, which he built into one of the largest cable television companies in the country. Dick was honored in 1994 with the Cablevision/Bill Daniels Operator of the Year Award at the National Cable Television Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana. He retired in 1994 to spend more time with his family, friends and golf clubs.
Dick was a firm believer in giving back to the community. He was a member and elder of First Presbyterian Church in Norfolk and spent countless hours supporting the church in many capacities. In addition to his love for the church, Dick was passionate about his commitment to civic organizations. Some of his volunteer activities included: Bayville Golf Club (President), Children's Health Foundation (Chairman), Chrysler Museum of Art (Chairman), Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (President), Lion's Club (President), Norfolk Airport Authority (Chairman), Norfolk Collegiate School (Chairman), Norfolk Yacht and Country Club (President), United Way of South Hampton Roads (Board of Directors), Virginia Opera (Board of Directors), Virginia Symphony Orchestra (Board of Directors), Virginia Wesleyan University (Chairman), Westminster Canterbury Foundation (Board of Directors). Dick received the Norfolk First Citizen Award and an honorary degree (Doctor of Laws) from Virginia Wesleyan University in 2008.
During his later years, Dick spent most of his time with his devoted wife, who predeceased him in 2021. The family expresses its gratitude to Matue and Melissa for their compassionate care.
A private graveside service will be held for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to First Presbyterian Church, Norfolk; the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation; the Chrysler Museum of Art; or the charity of your choice.