Dr. Roberta P. Wescott, 87, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of November 9, 2025. Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, Roberta devoted her life to education, athletics, community service, and her faith, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
Roberta earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Northwestern State University of Louisiana, a Master of Education from the University of Arkansas, and a Doctor of Education from Oklahoma State University. She began her teaching career at Connors State College in Warner and later at Northeastern State College in Tahlequah, before joining Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 1972 as a professor in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. During her 25-year tenure at SOSU, she inspired generations of students with her dedication, encouragement, and expertise. She was known among her students and colleagues as caring, compassionate, and deeply supportive—always ready to provide guidance or assistance.
Roberta was a dedicated coach at SOSU, leading the women’s tennis program and coaching volleyball alongside Vicki Hudson, a dear friend and trusted colleague. She also excelled as a tennis player, winning numerous awards and sharing her love of the sport with students and the community.
Her leadership extended far beyond the classroom. Roberta served as Chair of the Department of Health and Physical Education beginning in 1996 and was actively involved in numerous university and professional committees. She was a longtime member of the Oklahoma Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (OAHPERD), through which she worked to promote quality physical education programs across the state. In recognition of her exceptional service and leadership, she received OAHPERD’s prestigious Honor Award in 1992, joining a select group of educators recognized for their outstanding contributions.
Roberta started the Area 10 Special Olympics in 1973. She served as Area Coordinator from 1973 to 1975, continued volunteering with the program from 1976 through 1986, and directed the Special Olympics Track Meet from 1987 onward. Her tireless work ensured that the annual event at Southeastern became one of the finest in the country, offering athletes of all abilities an opportunity to shine.
Throughout her career, Roberta received numerous accolades, including SOSU Professor of the Year in 1980 and the Burlington Northern Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence in 1991. She was also recognized for her contributions to girls’ and women’s sports, as well as for 20 years of service to the Special Olympics.
A woman of deep faith, Roberta was an active member of Victory Life Church and devoted thirty years to volunteering with Duane Sheriff Ministries, traveling extensively and assisting in sharing the Word of God through cassette tapes and CDs. She also dedicated her time to supporting the ministries of Jack & Peggy Joyce Ruth and Angie Schum. She supported numerous charitable organizations, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Christ for the Nations, Wounded Warrior Project, and the Special Olympics. After retiring from SOSU in 1997, she taught Bible for a year at Victory Life Academy, continuing to share her love of learning and Scripture. Psalm 91 was a passage of scripture she stood on throughout her life, a source of strength and comfort that reflected her steadfast trust in God.
Roberta loved many things—renovating homes, caring for animals (and often adopting them), reading, and woodworking. She was also an avid traveler, exploring numerous countries including the Netherlands, Australia, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Scotland, Great Britain, and Israel. Her travels were often accompanied by her passion for photography, and she delighted in capturing the landscapes, architecture, and people she encountered along the way. She approached every pursuit with the same spirit of diligence and joy that defined her career and her faith.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff of King’s Daughters & Sons Nursing Home for their dedicated care, as well as to Centric Home Health & Hospice and Featherstone Assisted Living for their compassion and kindness in treating Roberta like family. A very special thank you goes to Ron Bennett, whose advocacy and care ensured that Roberta’s needs were always met with love and respect.
Roberta lived a life full of purpose, faith, and service—and she did it all with a kind heart and a can of Dr. Pepper in hand. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity that you are passionate about. That’s what Roberta would have wanted. And when you do, raise a toast of Dr. Pepper in her honor.
A private memorial service will be held to celebrate her life. I would like to thank all of Roberta’s friends and everyone who showed her love, support, and care throughout her life. Your kindness and friendship meant so much to Roberta.
“The Lord is my source, and without Him there would be no real motivation or purpose in my life.”
~ Dr. Roberta P. Wescott