News Summary
Robert S. Roberson, known as ‘Bo,’ passed away at 82, leaving behind a legacy of love and community service. He was a commercial banker and later president of an architectural firm, known for his volunteer work and leadership roles in various organizations. His commitment to family, education, and community service will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Williamsburg, VA — Robert S. Roberson, affectionately known as “Bo,” passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the age of 82. He died peacefully, surrounded by his beloved wife, Barbara, and their three daughters. Bo’s legacy encompasses a lifetime of dedication to his family and community, making a significant impact in both personal and professional realms.
Born on November 30, 1942, in Mount Kisco, NY, Bo was the son of Robert H. and Mercedes S. Roberson. He hailed from a family of several Founding Families of New York and was a proud graduate of New York University School of Commerce, Accounts and Finance, now known as the Stern School of Business. During his time there, he was recognized as a student leader and was inducted into NYU’s Honorary Society, the highest honor reflecting both scholarship and extracurricular involvement. He furthered his education by attending the NYU Graduate School of Business and subsequently earned an MBA from the College of William & Mary upon moving to Virginia.
Bo was married to Barbara Colbert Drane for nearly 58 years, and together they raised three daughters: Betsy and David in Boston, MA; Brooke and John in Greenwich, CT; and Buffy and Tom in Mill Valley, CA. Bo was also a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Merritt, Ella, Nina, Dash, and Henry. He was known for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and unwavering presence in the lives of his family.
Bo’s professional journey began as a commercial banker with Republic National Bank of New York. Shortly after marrying Barbara, the couple relocated to Newport News, VA, where Bo became President of Weaver Bros., Incorporated, an architectural millwork firm. Under his leadership, Weaver Bros. specialized in custom projects for significant institutions, including the College of William & Mary, Colonial Williamsburg, and the University of Virginia. Following the sale of its lumber and millwork divisions, Bo adeptly transitioned the company into real estate investment, overseeing the acquisition and management of various commercial properties in Virginia.
A lifelong volunteer, Bo was deeply committed to giving back to his community, instilling this ethos in his daughters. His volunteer career spanned over 75 years and included leadership and governing roles at numerous nonprofit organizations focused on early American history, education, the arts, and sports. He served on the governing boards of several institutions including the College of William & Mary, Randolph College, Richard Bland College, and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. His commitment extended to the Roberson Museum and Science Center, reflecting his family’s dedication to education.
Bo’s involvement with the community included memberships and leadership roles in organizations such as The Roberson Foundation, the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society, Muscarelle Museum of Art, and the Virginia War Museum. He was also a former National Committeeman for the United States Golf Association and accepted the honor of being an Honorary Deputy Chief of the Fire Department of New York City. His contributions to various charitable causes were recognized through memberships in prestigious organizations, including The Order of St. John and The Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus, as well as several elite clubs in New York and Virginia.
Bo was remembered by his family for his unflappable demeanor, intelligence, quick wit, and dry sense of humor. A private graveside service is planned in his memory, followed by a reception on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family has encouraged donations to Bruton Parish Church or a charity of one’s choice, honoring Bo’s lifelong commitment to helping others.
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- Dignity Memorial: Robert S. Roberson Obituary
- Wikipedia: Community Service
- Dignity Memorial: Robert S. Roberson Life Overview
- Google Search: Virginia History
- Dignity Memorial: Legacy of Robert S. Roberson
- Google Scholar: Architecture and Community Service
- Dignity Memorial: Commemorating Community Leaders
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Distribution of Wealth in Virginia
- Dignity Memorial: Tribute to Philanthropy
- Google News: Virginia Local News
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
