Lawrence Eugene "Larry" Roberts, age 86, of Independence, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and the memories of a life well lived.

Born on December 13, 1939, in Independence, Kansas, Larry devoted his life to serving others, whether through his military service, his many careers, or the unwavering love he gave to his family and friends. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer after a distinguished career marked by dedication, leadership, and integrity.

One of the hallmarks of Larry’s outstanding military career was his work and commitment to the US Navy’s Race Relations Program, instituted by then Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt Jr. Prior to 1970, black men and other minority Sailors (and their families) were treated as second class Sailors. Shipboard watch-sections were segregated. Black and minority families didn’t have equal access to family housing and other benefits. Admiral Zumwalt and SECNAV Chaffee recognized the bad policies and issued a course correction. “Z-Gram66” was issued on 17 December 1970. This directive, titled “Equal Opportunity in the Navy” was one of the CNO’s efforts to address racial discrimination within the US Navy. It expressed strong support for equal opportunity policies reaffirmed by the Secretary of the Navy in ALNAV 52 and directed immediate actions to improve conditions for minority personnel. Larry was one of the US Navy’s original Race Relations Officers, appointed by Admiral Zumwalt, serving in that role aboard the aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42). These changes didn’t come about easily. There was a personal and professional price to pay for the work he did to change the Navy’s culture aboard that ship. Larry was physically assaulted on multiple occasions and endured multiple death threats in laying the groundwork to bring about a color-blind Navy. Larry finished his work in 1975 and then retired from military service. Larry was never formally recognized by the US Navy or USS Roosevelt for his work as a Race Relations Officer until 38 years later when his own son, CWO4 Bill Roberts, provided the formal recognition at his 2013 military retirement ceremony.

Throughout his life, Larry embraced many roles and opportunities. He worked in the County Assessor's Office, served as a Captain with the Independence Police Department, drove trucks across the country, owned and operated a beloved local candy store, and later drove a school bus, where he enjoyed connecting with the children and families in his community. No matter the job, Larry approached his work with pride, kindness, and a strong sense of responsibility.

In 1963, Larry married the love of his life, Karen Jarvis. Together they built a beautiful life filled with devotion, laughter, adventure, and steadfast support for one another. Their marriage was a shining example of commitment and enduring love.

Larry's greatest joy was his family. He was a loving  husband, devoted father. He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his sons, William "Bill" (Terri)  and Steven . (Jenner Johnson) Roberts; and his daughters, Victoria (James) Allen, Angela Roberts, and Katherine (Stormy) Munkirs. He also leaves behind grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great- grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who were blessed to know him.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, John and Florence Roberts, his brother Thomas Roberts, and his sister Jeannette Lippencott.

He is also survived by his siblings, James "Jim" (Nancy) Roberts, Edwards Roberts, Marilyn Roberts, Christine David, Sister Janice Roberts, Sara (Chuck) Pugh, Mary (James Whitfield) Evans and Theresa (Mark) Mitchell, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and family bonds.

Those who knew Larry will remember his gentle spirit, warm smile, quick wit, and generous heart. He was a man who believed in helping others, putting family first, and living with honor and humility. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply spending time with those he loved, Larry had a way of making people feel valued and cared for. His wisdom, strength, and kindness will continue to guide and inspire those who loved him.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, the legacy of love, service, and devotion he leaves behind will live on in the hearts of his family and all whose lives he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, with burial to follow at Saint Andrew's Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Potts Chapel. A Rosary will be recited beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend, share memories, celebrate Larry's remarkable life, and honor the lasting impact he made on those fortunate enough to know and love him.