Roberta Lee "Robbie" Stabeno

1948 - 2024

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to our beloved mother, grammy, wife, sister and aunt, Roberta "Robbie" Lee Stabeno, who departed from this world on the first day of Spring, Wednesday 20th March 2024. While we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman, we find solace in the care, strength, and most of all, love she bestowed upon us throughout her life.

Born on 13th October 1948 to Roy Lawrence Merritt and Olga Mae (Goddard) Merritt. Robbie attended McLennan Community College and received her Associate's Degree in Business. She is survived by her daughter, Meridith (Murray) Martin, grandsons, Morgan and Mercer Martin, husband, Gary Stabeno, brother, Edward Merritt and his wife Suzanne, niece, Jessica LaRue and her husband Alex and their sons Elliot and Oliver LaRue, nephew, Jacob Merrit, former son-in-law Michael Martin, Meridith's partner Cheney D'Sylva and his daughters Aaliyah and Chiara D'Sylva.

Robbie was a passionate advocate for education and opportunity for all. For over 20 years, she worked tirelessly to support countless young adults in their pursuit of higher education. During her role as Director of Scholarships & MAC Program at the Waco Foundation, Robbie played a pivotal role in guiding and empowering students to overcome obstacles and realize their dream of attending college. Her unwavering commitment to providing guidance, resources, and encouragement paved the way for thousands of McLennan County students to achieve academic success and pursue their passions. Over her tenure at Waco Foundation, she helped nearly 43,000 students and awarded $8 million in scholarships. When Robbie retired a scholarship fund was established in her name. Her legacy of empowerment and education will continue to shape the futures of generations to come, a testament to her enduring dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.

In her later years, Robbie continued to inspire those around her with her love, grace, and indomitable spirit. Her love for her daughter Meridith and her grandsons, Morgan and Mercer knew no bounds. Her dedication and love saw her attending every basketball, football and baseball game possible. She was everything a Grammy could be and more.

Although we mourn the loss of Robbie, we take comfort in knowing that her love will continue to guide and inspire us. She may be gone from our sight, but she will forever remain in our hearts, a cherished presence whose memory will never fade. Robbie brought light and love into the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her unwavering devotion to her family was evident in every act of kindness, every gentle word, and every selfless sacrifice she made. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that she will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

A celebration of Robbie's life will be held on April 6, 2024, 11:00 am at St Paul's Episcopal Church, 515 Columbus Ave, Waco, TX 76701.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Robbie Stabeno - MAC Scholarship Fund ? Waco Foundation, in honor of Robbie's memory. Link: https://bit.ly/RobbieStabeno