Dr. William P. "Bill" Roberts

Dr. William P. “Bill” Roberts, age 94, of Oakwood, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, surrounded by the warmth and love of his family. He was born in the Bronx, New York, on April 25, 1931, the eighth of nine children of Clarence and Ruth (Dowd) Roberts.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and seven of his siblings. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Challon (O’Hearn) Roberts; daughters, Carolyn, Laura, and Kathryn; granddaughter, Kara; and sister, Sr. Maryam, OCD. Also mourning his death are his many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbors.

Bill’s loved ones meant the world to him, and he made sure they always knew that. He was inseparable from his beloved wife, Challon, with whom he shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Their partnership was a true testament to love, and Challon often affectionately referred to him as her "One in a Bill-ion." Together, they created a beautiful family, raising three cherished daughters, Carolyn, Laura, and Kathryn, who  will carry forward his legacy of kindness and empathy. Bill was also a proud grandfather to dear Kara, with whom he enjoyed many special moments, laughter, and celebrations of their shared birthday. Bill’s family absolutely adores him. The deep love and appreciation they have for this amazing being will continue eternally. 

A humble and deeply faith-filled man, Bill was a professor emeritus of Theology at the University of Dayton, where he taught for the last 35 years of his 51-year teaching career. He previously served as chair of the Theology Department at Wheeling College in West Virginia and of the Religious Studies Department at the former Edgecliff College in Cincinnati. Additionally, for many years until his passing, he volunteered for UD’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute as an instructor for over 40 seminars. Bill inspired students with his passion for the teachings of Jesus and belief in the power of love and compassion. He was known for his incredible ability to connect with others, exemplifying what it meant to be a caring and supportive figure in their lives. 

After graduating from Fordham Preparatory School in New York City, Bill received his B.A. and M.A. in English at Fordham University and a PhD in Theology at Marquette University. Bill authored and edited 15 books on a variety of theological topics, including prayer and Christian marriage. He also presented hundreds of retreats and workshops, lectured widely, and spent many years as a eucharistic minister and lector at Holy Angels Church. His professional associations for many decades included membership in Alpha Sigma Nu (the Jesuit Honor Society), the Catholic Theological Society of America, and the College Theology Society.

Bill lived life to the fullest. He jogged from the age of 8 to 80, enjoyed Dayton Philharmonic dates with his wife, continuously nurtured a spiritual life, and was an avid reader. Whether it was diving into theological texts, John Grisham novels, or meaningful poetry, he was always interested in expanding his mind and gaining insight. As the son of a University of Michigan alumnus, Bill loved cheering on the Wolverines throughout every football season. He treasured the time he spent with his family, connecting over dinner, playing games, attending events, and taking memorable trips to many different locations. He was a gentle, wise, compassionate man who treated people with kindness and respect and gave generously in many ways, including being a dedicated blood donor for numerous years.

Bill Roberts was an incredibly special human being. He touched countless lives and will be dearly missed. We love you forever, dear soul. Thank you.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Sunday, August 3, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the WESTBROCK FUNERAL HOME- DAYTON, 1712 Wayne Ave. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Bill’s honor on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Angels Church, 1322 Brown St., Dayton. He will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery, Dayton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Bill’s name to the Dr. William P. Roberts Social Justice Involvement Fund at the University of Dayton, 300 College Park Ave., Dayton, OH, 45469-7053, or to St. Vincent de Paul Society, 124 W. Apple St., Dayton, OH, 45402.