Wilbert Franklin Robertson
Wilbert Franklin Robertson, 93, born December 2, 1931, transitioned to his eternal home on July 2, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Watt Robertson and Hattie Bell Robertson, of Sandy Ridge, North Carolina.
He was also predeceased by his wife, Peggy Ann LaPrade Robertson, of Rocky Mount, Virginia; two sons, Dudley Franklin Robertson and Harry Joseph Robertson, both of Martinsville, Virginia; four brothers, John Worley Robertson, Claude Homer Robertson, Russell Ray Robertson and Dudley Harry Robertson; and one sister, Laura Louise Robertson Lester.
Left to cherish his memories are two daughters, Mary Jane Altizer of Critz, Virginia, and Debra Ann Robertson Coleman (David) of Stuart, Virginia; four grandsons, Jeremiah Franklin Schock (Jessica) of Huntsville, Alabama, Matthew Joseph Schock (Mallory) of Boones Mill, Virginia, Jonathan David Altizer (Taylor) of Stuart, Virginia, Austin Blake Coleman of Martinsville, Virginia; eight great-grandchildren, Henry Lawrence Schock, Shelby Ann Schock, Josie Morgan Schock, John Franklin Schock, Opal May Schock, Hattie Jo Schock, Walter Lee Schock and Jackson Dudley Altizer; and several nieces and nephews.
His last employment was with Nielsen Construction Company. An expert in trim work, he worked for many construction companies throughout the years and helped with custom-built homes in the local area.
Mr. Robertson was a member of Harvest Worship Center in Patrick Springs, Virginia. He loved attending for many years until he was no longer physically able. He never forgot a person he met there or anywhere. He presented the church with a handmade solid walnut pulpit and communion table which showcased his Master Carpentry skills; these items are currently in use and will forever be cherished. He used his woodworking skills to make many heirloom pieces for friends and family such as baby cradles, serving trays, cutting boards, stools, pieces of furniture, and cabinets for several custom-built homes. He loved blessing others with these items that were handcrafted from his heart.
Mr. Robertson never ventured far from his homeplace and was a simple kind of man--the salt of the earth type--but he would “dress to the nines“ for church, always donning a hat and cane. He believed you should look your best for God’s House.
With a very witty personality, he could tell stories like none other. His memory was phenomenal, and he often reminisced about riding a horse named “Maude” in the Preston area where he grew up and remained all of his life. He was affectionately called “Pa” by many.
He was part of the greatest generation and if you knew him, you loved him. What a legacy God allowed him to leave behind on this earth. We will never forget him. His final words would be “make sure you make it to heaven; I would like to see you again.” If there is building going on in Heaven, we all know what he will be doing there, helping to prepare a place.
A celebration of life and a memorial service will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Harvest Worship Center located at 21225 Jeb Stuart Hwy., Stuart, Virginia, officiated by Dr. David T. Coleman. The family will receive family and friends one hour prior to the service. A private burial service will follow at Roselawn Burial Park in Martinsville, Virginia.
Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wrightfuneralservices.net.
