Dr. Charles Grady Roberts

Dr. Charles Grady Roberts, 84, passed away January 8, 2026, in McKinney, Texas. He was born on June 10, 1941, in San Antonio, Texas, to his loving parents Wilfred Bill Roberts and Zelma Ernestine (St. Clair) Roberts.

Grady grew up on a cattle ranch in Walnut Springs and attended Meridian High School, where he distinguished himself academically, graduating in 1959 as valedictorian. His passion for learning carried him to Texas Christian University, where he earned his bachelor's degree, followed by a master's degree from Southern Methodist University. He later completed his academic journey at Stanford University, earning his PhD in 1973.

On February 3, 1968, he married the love of his life, Freda Ann Stephenson in Dallas, Texas, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, faith, and shared purpose. He was deeply committed to his church, Custer Road Methodist Church, in Plano, Texas, where he faithfully served and remained actively involved for many years.

Grady dedicated 35 years of distinguished service to Texas Instruments and additional years to Raytheon, where he rose to the role of Director of the Systems Components Laboratory. His career spanned numerous technical and leadership positions, most notably leading the electro-optical components team that developed thermal imaging and infrared products. His contributions were widely recognized through nine patents, numerous published works, conference presentations, and industry committees. Following retirement, Grady remained deeply engaged in technology, leading several startups and providing invaluable expert consulting. His continued contributions advanced innovation beyond his formal career.

Grady's greatest pride and deepest love was his family. With quiet conviction and steadfast example, Grady's lifelong purpose was to serve Christ faithfully and lead his family toward salvation. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who was engaged in the everyday moments as well as the milestones. Grady's dedication to his wife's health and happiness was unmatched and his love for her was profound. He generously offered unwavering support, guidance and love to his children, their spouses, his grandchildren, as well as his siblings.

He treasured his friendships which were rooted in faith, laughter, loyalty and common history.

Grady loved to travel with friends and family, especially spending time in the mountains, and on trips to Colorado, and found joy in outdoor activities such as water and snow skiing. A passionate sports fan, he faithfully supported the Dallas Cowboys and his beloved TCU Horned Frogs. He gave generously of his time to his community, serving on the Lovejoy Independent School District school board, coaching little league sports, attending church youth trips, where he was known for encouraging teamwork, discipline, and character. Grady's life was marked by intellectual excellence, quiet leadership, unwavering faith, and a deep commitment to family and community - a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

Grady is survived by his wife, Freda Roberts of McKinney, Texas; children, Brian Roberts and wife, Joy (Trinidad) Roberts of Howe, Texas, Sharon (Roberts) McTernen and husband, Patrick William McTernen of Roanoke, Texas, and Susan (Roberts) Frederick of Colleyville, Texas; grandchildren, Jake Grady Roberts, Brett Ryan Roberts, Liam Robert McTernen, Sean Warren McTernen, Ashley Elizabeth Frederick and Julia Elise Frederick; brother, Wilfred "Don" Roberts and wife, Cathy Roberts of Richardson, Texas; sister, Rita (Roberts) Collum and husband, Jerry Collum , of Yantis, Texas; nephews, Anthony Roberts and Dale Roberts; and a host of extended family members and friends, who will miss him dearly and forever cherish his memory.

Grady was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred and Ernestine Roberts; his grandson, Caden Jack McTernen; and his son-in-law, David Frederick.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Custer Road United Methodist Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano, Texas 75023. Following the funeral, a procession will make its way to Ridgeview Memorial Park for a committal service. A reception will immediately follow (location to be determined).