Loyce Mary Jane Gibens Roberson, affectionately known by those who loved her as “Nanny” and “Molly,” peacefully departed this earthly life and entered her Heavenly Home on Friday, June 26, 2026, at her daughter’s residence, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 85 years old.
Funeral services honoring the life of Mrs. Roberson will be held at 3:00 PM on Monday, June 29, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home with Bro. Chris Lewellen officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Sunday evening from 5:00 until 8:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Lowry Church Cemetery with a graveside service.
Born on May 21, 1941, in Tippah County, Mississippi, Mrs. Roberson was the beloved daughter of the late Frank Gibens and Flora Stroupe Gibens. She attended Center School in Ashland before beginning a life devoted to her family. She worked for several years in factory employment before dedicating approximately five years of service to nursing home care, faithfully caring for others until her retirement.
A faithful member of North Ripley Baptist Church, Mrs. Roberson was a woman with a personality as unforgettable as her smile. She was known for being sassy, speaking her mind, and never hesitating to tell you exactly what she thought. Her honesty, quick wit, and spirited nature endeared her to everyone who knew her, and as her family often said, “If you knew her, you’d never forget her.”
Mrs. Roberson found joy in life’s simple blessings. She loved riding through the countryside, taking trips to the Smoky Mountains, and spending time with her family. Family gatherings were among her greatest treasures, especially when they included a meal of Muddy Creek catfish with turnip greens and hush puppies. She dearly loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Purple was her favorite color, and seeing a redbird always brought a smile to her face. She will be remembered most for the love she poured into her family and the countless memories she leaves behind.
Mrs. Roberson is survived by her daughters, Alisa Roberson (Gavin Mauldin) and Mary Sue Clark; her sons, James Roberson (Lisa Kay) and Kerry Roberson (Tammy); seven grandchildren, Jessica Kelly, Chelsea Kelly, Hunter Kelly, Brittany Hopkins (Tracy), Melanie Brumley (Wesley), Dez Morton (Micheal), and Shelby Easley (Jacob); six great-grandchildren, with one additional great-grandchild expected soon; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Mrs. Roberson was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alton Roberson; her parents, Frank and Flora Gibens; her sisters, Lucy Coburn and Pat French; her brothers, Hob Gibens, Wesley Gibens, and Daniel Gibens; and her beloved granddaughter, Amber Roberson.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to Legacy Hospice, especially Deen, for the compassionate care, kindness, and support shown to Mrs. Roberson and her loved ones during her illness.
Though Mrs. Roberson’s family will deeply miss her quick wit, feisty spirit, and unwavering love, they find peace in knowing she has been reunited with those who have gone before her. The memories she created, the laughter she shared, and the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends for generations to come. Her life was a beautiful reminder that speaking your mind, loving your family fiercely, and enjoying life’s simple blessings are treasures that never fade.
