William Keith (Bill) Roberts, born January 07, 1931, in Milwaukee Wisconsin to Lucille Hixson-Roberts-Sargent and Joseph Roberts. Lived in Rockford and Rock Island, Illinois. He passed away in Silver Cross, Friendship Manor on July 13, 2026, at 95 and ½ years of age.

Bill married the love of his life, Camilla Waldsmith-Roberts. She preceded him in death.

They created 4 children; Karen A. Phillips and her spouse John C. Phillips of Rock Island. Susan M. Roberts of Albuquerque, New Mexico. William P. Roberts of Boquete, Panama. Julie R. Roberts and her spouse Ashraf Berikaa of Murphy, North Carolina. There were 4 grandchildren; Rene’ Estes-Roberts and her spouse Jessie Thomas-Hall of Australia. Dale Roberts of Albuquerque, NM. Michael R. Phillips and his spouse Alicia Ekman, of Seattle, WA, and Katherin M. Phillips of Boston, MA.

Bill served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years of active duty and earned his 20 years in the Naval Air Reserves. He served during both the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts.

He overcame a dysfunctional upbringing and changed his life when he met Cam. After he served his active duty where he acquired his GED, he found a full-time job, several part-time jobs and earned a BS and an MS from Rockford College and NIU. Bill worked as a therapist, a counselor, Nursing Home Director, Realtor, and wonderful Dad. He never gave up until the last few years when health issues sent him to Silver Cross Skilled Nursing where they took very good care of him until the end. Many thanks to the staff of Friendship Manor, Silver Cross, and Heartland Hospice. We couldn’t have handled things without your work, guidance, and support.

Bill requested no services and we will honor his wishes. He DID want us to have a party, and we will.