William Porter “Bill” Roberts of Mobile, Alabama, passed away on September 4, 2025, at the age of 71. Bill was born in Mobile on November 10, 1953, to parents August Porter Roberts Jr. and Janie Louise Black. He lived in Mobile for most of his life and graduated from UMS Wright as a young man. A talented athlete, he pitched for UMS Wright’s baseball team and was fondly nicknamed the “rubber band man,” because whenever he was pulled out of a game, he was quickly called back in. He pursued his undergraduate education at Samford University, where he majored in voice. Music was one of Bill’s deepest passions, and he shared that gift widely as a Minister of Music for several congregations, including Hillcrest Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Mobile. Bill also worked in the finance division of the Alabama Port Authority, where colleagues knew him as a man of integrity and dedication until his retirement. Bill’s love for the arts was broad and enthusiastic. He enjoyed science fiction, from the novels of Stephen King to the eerie brilliance of The Twilight Zone. He was especially devoted to opera, often attending Mobile Opera performances and filling his home with arias and classical melodies. To those who knew him best, Bill will also be remembered for his humor: sharp, witty, and delightfully unpredictable. His children especially cherished the banter that left them laughing and sometimes astonished. Beyond humor, Bill gave of his whole heart. He poured his generosity into his spouse, children, grandchildren, cousins, and friends. Whether reading to children, volunteering with the Optimist Club, or offering his quiet support to someone in need, Bill’s love was steadfast and abundant. He was also a man of deep care and consideration. Thoughtful with his words and deliberate in his actions, Bill treated others with respect and gentleness. He never imposed, never judged, but allowed people the grace to grow and flourish in their own time. Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra Clardy Roberts; his brother, David August Roberts; his children, Sarah Roberts Hilscher (Nick), William Mark Roberts (Kristen), Justin Sanders Litaker, Lindsey Roberts Coker (Dennis), Candace Litaker Headland (Anthony), and Coleman Ray Litaker (Rachael); and his grandchildren, Dylan Michael Roberts, Sarah Anne Hilscher, William Brayden Roberts, William Nicholas Hilscher, III, Henry Watt Hilscher, Mary MacRainey Roberts, Lainey Kate Miller, Lydia Kathrine Headland, Camilla Louise Roberts, Janie Grace Hilscher, William Porter Roberts, II, Isaac Taylor Headland, Madison Rae Litaker, and Abigail Grace Coker. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, remembered not only for his voice and wit but for the deep love and care he carried into every corner of his life.
November 10, 1953 – September 4, 2025
Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church, Mobile, AL. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Trey Doyle officiating. Arrangements are by Radney Funeral Services.
Bill was a true and loyal friend who allowed. A confidant in whom I shared moments of personal thoughts knowing I would not be judged, but be responded to with wisdom, honesty and concern. A man who loves and followed Christ in a n authentic way.
Sending prayers and thoughts to the entire family. 🙏
Sending my love to the entire family.