Frankie Roebuck's Memorial Service Program

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ion of t a r Li b e l e

Warren Franklin (Frankie) Finley Roebuck April 11, 1950 - July 12, 2008

Holy Cross Catholic Church Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands July 24, 2008 ~~~~ Viewing 10:00 am - 10:30 am Service 10:30 am ~~~~ Interment: Christiansted Cemetary

family and friends Children

Tamiko Sticatto & Wesley Washington

Grandchildren

Saleim & Aidido Sticatto

Haidie Finley &

Parents

Arturo Francis Roebuck

Brothers

Lucien Fuentes, Arturo E., Lauritz H., Norman W., & Melvin Roebuck

Sisters

Rita Rothman, Yvonne R. Hanschen, Sonia Ferdinand, Reemo Edwards, Mary Roebuck, Edna M. R. Soto

Uncle

Larry Finley

Aunts

Evelyn & Elsie Roebuck

Nieces

Regina, Lucy, Jackie & Vicky, Chandra R. Kier, Haidie Michael Santos, LaVerne R. Lester, Marilyn, Michelle, Sheree, Lisa, Natalie, & Jade Roebuck, Letitia Padderson, Norma & Tanasha Roebuck

Nephews

Frank Ramsingh, Jr., Capt. Harry Fuentes, Darren & Troy Roebuck, David Soto, Deinon Schuster

Brothers-in Law

Bruce Rothman, Alexander Hanschen

Sisters-in-Law

Heather & Gwendolyn Roebuck

Special Family & Friends

Maren Roebuck, Joseph Bradford, Helen Roebuck, Mae Adams Cornwall, Stanley F. Sneed & family, Michael and Liam Kier, Carlos Steel, Jr., Howard O’Neal, Arthur Powell, Irene Jenkins & family, Gloria Lang & family, Arnold Jeffers & family, John Bridgewater & family, Yvonne Lombardi, other family & friends too numerous to mention

Warren Franklin (Frankie) Finley Roebuck

order of service Eulogy May Adams Cornwall Introductory Prayer:

Rev. K. Gaddy, C.Ss.R.

Entrance Hymn:

Congregation

(1) “Enter Into Jerusalem”

First Reading:

“Wisdom 4:7-14”

Charles Butcher

Responsorial Psalm:

“Psalm. 130:1-8”

Charles Butcher

Second Reading:

“2 Cor. 5:1, 6-10” Chandra R. Kier

Gospel: .

Homily: Offertory Hymn:

Rev. K. Gaddy, C.Ss.R.

(2) “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” Congregation

Our Father:

Sing

Communion Hymn: Meditation Hymn:

Rev. K. Gaddy, C.Ss.R.

Congregation

(3) ”Hear O Lord” Congregation (4) “He Looked Beyond My Fault” Congregation

Final Commendation & Farewell:

Rev. K. Gaddy, C.Ss.R

Recessional Hymn:

Congregation

(5) ”The Strife Is O’er”

Cantor Malcolm Evans Organist Alvin Milligan Pall Bearers Frank Ramsingh Jr.

Howard O’Neal Deinon Schuster Stanley F. Sneed Jr O’Neil Canton Douglas Canton

April 11, 1950 - July 12, 2008

eulogy Warren Franklyn Finley Roebuck, affectionately known by family and friends as Frankie, was born on St. Croix to the late Haidie Finley and Arturo Roebuck on April 11, 1950. During his early childhood days, Frankie was greatly influenced by the nuns at the convent where he was raised after the loss of his mother at the early age of five. His sister, Yvonne, played a major support role in his later formative years.

Frankie was quiet, reserved, and private. If you were close to him, you would know that he was very genuine and stated things exactly as he saw them. He gave his opinion candidly leaving no room for misinterpretation. He spoke plain as the old folks say. That is, he could clearly and exactly describe the situation at hand and you did get it.

He cared about everyone and what they were going through. He would call to speak with family and his genuine concern could be felt through the telephone line. Those close to him described him as the “sweetest fellow” who was the most liked, kind, organized and hardworking person who would do anything for his family. He loved his children very much and was sorry he was not more in touch with them.

In the late 1960s, Frankie used his artistic talents and skills to create unique tie-dyed and embroidered clothing, which gave us a glimpse of his gift from God. Frankie’s affinity for natural environments could later be witnessed in 1991 at his farm and garden where he grew tomatoes, bell peppers, okras, and beautiful hibiscus flowers.

Like his Dad, he had a green thumb and they both freely shared their bounty with family and friends.

When Frankie linked up with his Roebuck family tree, he joined the fun family branch. We had many great times hanging out and enjoying every square mile of fun on the island of St. Croix. In 1995, we had the most memorable time at our Roebuck Family Reunion. Later that year, after Hurricane Marilyn destroyed his father’s home in Solitude, Frankie extended himself to help rebuild his home, as he was a skilled tradesman in masonry, carpentry, plumbing, etc. You name it and he could fix it. During this time, they bonded and made up for much time loss. After that experience, “Papa” expressed that “Frankie was a Godsend”. Need we say any more?

Frankie left St. Croix in 1998 to settle in Orlando and started what would become a very successful landscaping business built solely on references due to the high quality of his work. Two years ago, he moved to Atlanta at the urging of his brother, Lauritz, and his wife, Gwen. He assisted in the renovation of a senior citizen residence they own. He continued his landscaping business and his jobs were often described as “a work of art”. His success continued to win the hearts of everyone he came in contact with. Indeed, even a contractor he worked with wept openly at the news of his passing.

Frankie would reminisce about life …life after retirement… where he would go… what he would do. He dreamed of a life with stability but his heart always sought out new experiences. He would often say, “Life is short” so you have to “pull it together”.

He knew the truth about life and he wanted everyone he loved to know also.

Warren Franklin (Frankie) Finley Roebuck

~~~~~~

I was devastated to hear of Warren’s passing. He was such a talented individual. Warren worked on many projects around my home. He took on each task with artistic care. Every project was a creation of his artistic ability. There were so many plans made to renovate my “old house” that he was involved in and we hadn’t completed. He will be missed.

He spoke of his family and St. Croix frequently. My deepest sympathy for your loss.

Diane Mundine

Homeowner and Community Manager of Mainstreet Community Stone Mountain, GA ~~~~~~

Warren Roebuck An Exemplar of Humanity At It’s Best It hasn’t been 2 years since I met Warren Roebuck. He sat in a community meeting quiet, calm full of respect for all around him. A request for help with lighting in the community pavilion was made and instantly, and boldly it was answered by the gentleman, Mr. Roebuck. That was only the genesis, as neighbors grew to know Warren he never hesitates to lend a hand to any who needs his service. He was a man of honesty and integrity, if there was a task that Warren felt he lacked expertise in, he would never deceive, BUT tells you he recommends a specialist. Warren’s presence was always a welcomed sight among all of us in Mainstreet.

We will miss him BUT will cherish the thought that he is in a place of eternal peace, and God will continue to use him to spread HEAVENLY JOY. I pray that God will guide Warren family’s through the grieving process.

I am lucky to have met the Exemplarily Human, Warren Roebuck

Norma Bennett Mainstreet Community Stone Mountain, GA ~~~~~~

April 11, 1950 - July 12, 2008

~~~~~~

Frankie, If you can hear us today This is what we have to say You really surprised and shocked us all When we, to us, got that dreadful call That you had left us for a better place We’re all saddened that we will never again see your face We watched you just about every day Working continuously in every way You took your time and didn’t dwell That is why your finished products looked so well You seem to had been a quiet mannered man But also one that didn’t back down, that took a stand Although your manner seemed subdued at first You cared about people and they came first You didn’t seem like a man that had too much to say But your work spoke for itself without delay You seem to work around the clock at doing your best You were doing what you loved when God made you rest Although we wouldn’t see the physical you anymore We know you have now entered heaven’s door With happiness in your heart and a smile on your face We’ll miss you here, for no one can take your place.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to your family and friends Life is just beginning, in life there is no end.

May good thoughts and memories of you bring joy to their hearts For in memories you will never part.

Ramona Maolud (Sneed) & The Sneed Family Stone Mountain, GA

~~~~~~

Frankie, I am so happy we reconnected when you came home recently; I missed our long phone conversations when we would share stories about our lives, bond together, and keep the family ties strong. I miss you already.

May Cornwell

Warren Franklin (Frankie) Finley Roebuck

From a very devoted sister-in-law.

Your love and devotion will always be in my heart. You are one of the best friends I ever had. May your journey into eternity be a glorious one. You can rest now.

Love,

Gwen

~~~~~~

Edna Roebuck Soto and her son, David Soto, share these words with the family

here today in memory of Frankie Roebuck “One day we’ll all be done with the troubles of this world… Until then, God gave us each other to lean on.

We are thinking of everyone in the family during this time and praying you will all find comfort knowing that Frankie is home now, free… at peace in the presence of God.”

Edna Roebuck Soto David Soto ~~~~~~ Uncle Frankie,

There is no pain, you are receding A distant ship, smoke on the horizon You are only coming through in waves Your lips move but I can’t hear what you’re saying When I was a child I had a fever My hands felt like two balloons Now I’ve got that feeling once again I can’t explain, you would not understand This is not how I am I have become comfortably numb … (Pink Floyd)

I cherish the times we spent together, the things you’ve taught me and your lectures. You were like a father to me and I could always count on you. I will miss you, until we meet again.

Your loving niece,

Chandra

~~~~~~

April 11, 1950 - July 12, 2008

(2) Just A Closer Walk With Thee Author Unknown I am weak, but Thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong; I’ll be satisfied as long As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.

Chorus Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it, Jesus, is my plea, Daily walking close to Thee, Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

Through this world of toil and snares, If I falter, Lord, who cares?

Who with me my burden shares?

None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee.

(4) He Looked Beyond My Fault Written by- Dottie Rambo Amazing grace shall always be my song of praise For it was grace that bought my liberty I do not know just why He came to love me so He looked beyond my faults and saw my needs

Chorus I shall forever lift mine eyes to Calvary To view the cross where Jesus died for me How marvelous the grace that caught my falling soul He looked beyond my faults and saw my needs

Chorus

(5) The Strife Is O’er Author Unknown

When my feeble life is o’er, Time for me will be no more; Guide me gently, safely o’er To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore.

The strife is o’er, the battle done; The victory of life is won; The song of triumph has begun: Alleluia!

Chorus

Refrain

~~~

(3) Hear O Lord Hear O Lord the sound of my voice Hear O Lord and have Mercy My soul is longing for the glory of you Oh hear O Lord and answer me.

Chorus Every night before I sleep I pray my soul to take Or else I pray that loneliness Is gone when I awake.

Chorus Why do I no longer feel Like I’ve a place to stay?

O take me where someone will care So fear will go away.

Chorus In you Lord I place my cares And all my troubles too O grant, dear Lord, that some day soon I’ll live in peace with you

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

The powers of death have done their worst; But Christ their legions have dispersed; Let shouts of holy joy outburst: Alleluia!

Refrain The three sad days are quickly sped; He rises glorious from the dead; All glory to our risen Head! Alleluia!

Refrain He closed the yawning gates of hell; The bars from heaven’s high portals fell; Let hymns of praise His triumphs tell! Alleluia!

Refrain Lord, by the stripes which wounded Thee, From death’s dread sting Thy servants free, That we may live, and sing to Thee: Alleluia!

Refrain

Chorus

April 11, 1950 - July 12, 2008

To my Family and Friends, In an instant news can be received that will leave us with an open mouth, a twisted stomach, numbness in the joints; a feeling of abandonment, fear, anguish and pain that grips to the core of your being. We just can’t understand and we ask, why? Then I am reminded, and I pass this on to you with the hope that you too may find comfort should such feelings try to consume you. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-8. So, let us celebrate the life that in some way touched us all. Let us celebrate my brother Warren Franklin Finley Roebuck, affectionately known as Frankie.

Mary ~~~~~~ I have not been one to write about the life end of a friend. Frankie was a friend. A new friend, so there were things we were still learning about each other. As men of age, we were cautious, we measured our words, we tested boundaries… old men stuff. We had a bonding moment. We felled a very big tall rotten tree in my sister’s yard last summer. That was hilarious. The damn thing almost fell on me. Frankie was cool, as he watch me scramble, losing my footing, slipping down, going into a fetal position thinking this was it.

I waited, Frankie waited, I survived. I turned and looked at Frankie, my heart redlining, sounding like a pounding kettledrums in my chest. Frankie, stood there, looking with a smile on his face… “Wow, ah man”, he said. “That was close, he said.” He went back to working. I quit. That was Frankie. He was cool, concerned, but real. Not dwelling on the “what could have happen”, but what is happening.

Frankie talked about St. Croix a lot. He wanted to come home. When he was here last year, we drove around St. Croix. He gave me a “use ta” tour of St. Croix…”Dis use ta be own by…” “Dis use ta be a…” “Dis use ta be that...”, a history that I wanted to record when he returned. He knew the back streets, the old stuff, and the old Crucian melee.

Frankie was a quite man. He had a soft demeanor, but a hard shell. I will think about Frankie from time to time and I will miss my new friend. Rest in peace my friend, rest in peace.

Stanley Sneed ~~~~~~

Warren Franklin (Frankie) Finley Roebuck

April 11, 1950 - July 12, 2008

(1) Enter into Jerusalem

Words and music: Fr. Richard Holung

Enter into Jerusalem Let us go to God’s house With the healthy and the sick With the worker and the weak, Let us go to God’s house.

Enter into Jerusalem Let us go to God’s house, Come and run with the wind, And the God who reigns in peace, Let us go to God’s house.

Chorus We go celebrate, (3x) O Israel!

Praise the name of the Lord on high, Praise his name in song.

Praise the Lord with a heav’nly song With a heav’nly song, with a heav’nly song Praise the Lord.

Enter into Jerusalem Mek we walk-a-down there, With the young and the old, With the little and the large, Mek we walk-a-down there.

Enter into Jerusalem Mek we walk-a-down there, Swaying to the breeze With the God who reigns in peace, Mek we walk-a-down there.

Enter into Jerusalem Let us go to God’s house, With yu Papa and yu Mama, With yu Uncle and yu Aunt, Let us go to God’s house.

Enter into Jerusalem Let us go to God’s house, Run and catch the breeze With the God who reigns in peace, Let us go to God’s house.

Warren Franklin (Frankie) Finley Roebuck

When Tomorrow Starts Without Me (Excerpt) Author Unknown.

When tomorrow starts without me, And I’m not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes All filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn’t cry The way you did today, While thinking of the many things, We didn’t get to say.

I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, And each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand.

If I could relive yesterday, Just even for a while, I’d say goodbye and kiss you And maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realized, That this could never be, For emptiness and memories, Would take the place of me.

So when tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart, For every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart.

Our family would like to acknowledge the many, many prayers, condolences and helping hands from extended family & friends. A kind word, some laughter, a tear drop; gives warm comfort to the heart and settles the soul. We thank you and wish you God’s blessings.

Following the funeral service, the family wishes to retire quietly. Thank you for your understanding.

Arrangements by: James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. 6 AA La Grande Princesse – P.O. Box 224605 Christiansted, VI 00822-4605 (340) 778-8663 Layout & Designed by: sFs

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