Melvin Garrett Roberts “Pug,”
Born on April 29, 1936 in Birmingham, AlabamaPassed on January 7, 2025 in Palm Bay, Florida
“Melvin Garrett Roberts “Pug,” went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 7, 2025, at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Over the years he faced the challenges of the illness with remarkable strength surrounded by the love and care of his devoted wife, Kathryn Whybrew Roberts “Kay,” and his family. Though the disease gradually took its toll, it never diminished the warmth of his spirit or the depth of his love for those close to him. Pug will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and will be remembered for his kindness, selflessness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Pug was a loyal employee and worked for over 30 years with General Electric primarily on the guidance systems for the Polaris, Poseidon, and Trident rockets at Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Pug was born in Birmingham, AL in 1936, the son of Theophilus Garrett and Cora Lena Roberts. Pug was the 4th child, after his brothers Herbert Roberts (Ann), “Chick,” Roberts (Dot), Ila Roberts Rogers (Bob), and younger sister Wanda Roberts Cody (Delbert), and was the last living sibling. Upon high school graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and served for 5 years. After leaving the service Pug moved to Cocoa, FL, where he met his future wife, Kay Whybrew. They were married for 63 years. Pug is survived by his wife Kay, their daughter Kathy Roberts Buckingham (Tim), and youngest son Todd Wayne Roberts (Mary). Eldest son, Michael Garrett Roberts (Katie) predeceased in 2021. Also survived, were Pug’s grandchildren, TJ Buckingham (Amanda), Dustin Buckingham (Becky), Amy Nayes (Luke), Josh Buckingham (Meagan), Taylor Thompson (Andrew), Allie Nett (Will), and Lizzie Roberts. Pug was also blessed with 13 great-grandchildren.
Pug received Christ in 2008 at his home church of Calvary Chapel Melbourne, and his ashes will be laid to rest with honor at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life service will be held February 1, 2025, at 11:00am at Calvary Chapel of Melbourne, at 2955 Minton Road, West Melbourne, FL 32904, with luncheon to follow.”
