Larry Ray “PeeWee” Roberts, 65, of Richmond, Missouri, died Thursday, May 21, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Larry was born on June 27, 1954, in Dockery, Missouri, the son of Gerald Ray and Evelyn (Graham) Roberts. Larry Ray was united in marriage to Betty Ann Lee of Richmond on Dec. 18, 1976, at her parent’s home in Henrietta, Missouri; she preceded him in death on March 3, 2018.

Larry leaves behind a son, Luther Ray Roberts of Richmond; daughter, Betty Lee Roberts of Richmond; brothers-in-law, Robert (Sue) Lee of Orrick, and Charles (Marilyn) Lee and Sidney (Penny) Lee, both of Richmond; sister-in-law, Joyce Loulos of Leeton, Missouri; other extended family, Ethel Reavis, Jonathan Reavis and Anna May (Nelson) Holmes; faithful companions, a dog, Sweet Pea, and a cat, Midnight; and all his friends in Richmond.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brother, Carl Roberts; three stepbrothers; and his sister in infancy.

Larry was affectionately known as “PeeWee” by his family, friends and everyone that loved him. Larry was reared and educated in the area of his birth. He also lived in Kansas City for a while. He was a well-loved, long-time employee for the city of Richmond.

Larry, along with his son, Luther, worked as a handyman, and in lawn maintenance and mowing in the area. He loved nothing more than a good cup of coffee with a cigarette. Although Larry was small in stature, he could eat more than men twice his size. Larry had a big heart and a good work ethic; he and his son, Luther, were always working. He was of the Christian faith and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the American Cancer Society or the Richmond City Animal Shelter. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services and inurnment took place on Thursday, May 28, 2020, with visitation lasting from 10 a.m. until memorial service time at 11 a.m. at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Inurnment followed the services in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Ceremonies entrusted to Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond. Please remember to share memories of Larry with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.