Thomas Gwyn Roberts

Tom always had a kind word and a smile. He asked about each of them just recently. He made the world a better place, and He will be greatly missed.

My prayers to Tammy and the entire family. May you find peace and comfort in knowing the positive impact he had on so many people. Tom was one of the finest men I knew. I met him through Todd when we were at App together in the 80's. My heart is broken for you all.

T.R. was a true gentleman and a scholar. I owe so much to him helping me realize how far I could go and challenging me through high school. I consider him one of my most influential mentors and couldn't begin to list all of the good I saw him do for myself and other young people. He will be missed immensely.

I work with the Upward Bound program at Appstate, and shared this with my colleagues today. I thought I would post it here, too, in memory of TR:

I am beyond saddened that Tom Roberts has passed away. For those of you who had not met him, he had been an Upward Bound summer instructor since the 1980s. He developed the curriculum for UB summer Biology and other content areas, faithfully taught summer classes for UB, and was one of the most cherished, precious, incredible people you could have ever met.

He was known by many of us as TR or Coach, and his contribution to young people over his long career is literally impossible to measure. He graduated from Appstate, taught science at Ashe County High School for most of his life, coached football for ages, was involved in the community, his family, and in all things Upward Bound.

I could (and will) go on and on about TR. He was the pinnacle of a caring, motivating, strong, understanding, knowledgeable, and self-less educator, father, brother, son, friend, and colleague. I know I speak for the Upward Bound staff and students when I say we will forever grieve his passing. We honor TR for all he contributed to our program, but moreover, for all he gave to every single person he encountered throughout his life. You were a better person in undeniable ways for having known TR. His sweet, genuine nature would draw you close to him. He had a love for life and a passion for mentoring, educating, and coaching young people. This would radiate from him and fill you with the sense that he had dedicated his life to others, simultaneously empowering you to do the same.

We extend our most profound sympathies to TR's family. We will miss him always.

Aaron Gersonde

I'm sad to hear such a great person passed away. He was an amazing person and teacher
He has had a great impact on a lot of kids life. He's one teacher that cared. I'm glad I had him for class back in the early 80tys . Much love and respect. Prayers for the family.