Grady Lawrence Roberts Jr.

The family and friends of Grady Lawrence Roberts, Jr. will gather Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 422 W. Brazos, Pearsall, Texas, to celebrate his life and love, beginning with the Viewing at 9:30 a.m. The Rosary will follow at 10:00 a.m., and the Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m.

Grady was born in San Antonio, the only child of Grady L. Roberts, Sr. and Marcella “Sally” Roberts. Though he was an only child biologically, Grady and Francisco “Frankie”  Padilla were brothers in heart from childhood.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, in 1966 and a law degree in 1969. While in law school he helped organize St. Mary’s Law Review.

Grady served his country as an officer in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where he met the love of his life, Susan “Sue” Farwick.

In his four years as an Army lawyer, Grady represented his clients tirelessly with zeal and creativity, always striving to do justice and promote fairness. At the same time, he endeared himself  to soldiers of every rank from the lowest Private to his superior officers. Grady was a man of peace and honor against the backdrop of brutal war. One JAGC colleague characterized Grady as "the glue that held us together."

     He and Sue were married on August 5, 1972. They made their home in Pearsall, and reared a son, Garrett Lawrence Roberts and a daughter, Kathleen “Katie” Suzanne Roberts. Much to Grady’s delight, Katie has practiced law with him since 2018.

He expressed his faith and love for God and the Church as an active supporter of his Parish, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. 

As a small town lawyer Grady specialized in “whatever came through the door”. He was a fierce advocate for his clients and he loved helping young lawyers hone their skills. He prepared his cases well and with creativity. His colleagues held him in great respect. 

Grady suffered a massive heart attack during a Court hearing the morning of Monday, March 4, 2024. He died later that evening at a hospital in San Antonio.

Grady was a keen observer of current events, which provided material for his wit and humor.

He had a special fondness for the lawyers who served with him at Fort Knox, and became the catalyst for a loose group of former military lawyers who kept in touch with each other over the years. Grady remained in the Army Reserves after his discharge from active duty and attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

If you were Grady’s friend you knew he loved you and cared for you, and many of his friends felt him to be their heart brother.

The good die too soon. Grady was one of the best of the good, and he truly left us too soon.