Obituaries

Oakleigh Elise Roberts

Photo of Oakleigh Elise Roberts
Oakleigh Elise Roberts, age 31, of Fayetteville, passed away on Saturday, May 27, 2017. She was born on November 15, 1985, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to Greig and Vivian Kay Sherrill Roberts. She was preceded in death by her father, Greig Roberts; her great-grandmother, Oma Philpot; and her grandfather, Sidney Lee Sherrill Sr. Oakleigh was a graduate of Fayetteville High School where she attained multiple honors and awards. She went on to obtain a bachelor's of science in business administration graduating with honors from the University of Arkansas also receiving the Dean's Certificate of Service. She attained her law degree and Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas in Little Rock where she was also recognized for her academic excellence. She served a three year internship at AETN and became a certified mediator as well as teaching courses in mediation. Oakleigh was also a member of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Kappa Alpha Psi-Beta Zeta. She was a gifted writer and had a natural ability for computer work. During high school and while obtaining her undergraduate degree, Oakleigh helped to care for her precious friend, Jan Trumbo, who battled with Alzheimer's. Jan was like a grandmother, mentor, encourager, and best friend to Oakleigh. They connected because they shared so many wonderful qualities which were gifted to them by the Lord. Oakleigh started an empowerment program utilizing the character of Snow White to teach little girls that they are all princesses in God's kingdom. She never had children of her own, but was blessed to have eight godchildren in her life as well as taking every opportunity to reach into the lives of the children around her to make an impact for the Lord. Oakleigh's motto was, "I am a Princess not because I have a prince but because my Father is King." Enjoying High Tea was Oakleigh's favorite pastime while traveling throughout the world including London, Ireland, Scotland, New York City, Las Vegas, Athens, Los Angeles or in Arkansas with her dear godchildren She was not only a beautiful person on the outside, but on the inside as well. The internal beauty is what shone through all of her selfless and caring acts that she bestowed on everyone around her until her illness rendered her physically incapable. Oakleigh persevered many years of illness and pain, but was always offering prayer and loving encouragement for others. "And so it was.... that having waited long and endured patiently realized and obtained what God had promised." Hebrews 6:15. "I am not alone for my Father is with me." John 16:32. Oakleigh is survived by her loving mother, Vivian Kay Sherrill-Roberts; her grandmother, Genie Sherrill of Somerville, Tennessee; four uncles, Lee Sherrill and wife Susan of Little Elm, Texas, John Philpot of Little Rock, Bud Philpot of Hobbs, New Mexico, and Buddy Philpot and wife Jamie of Springdale; one aunt, Betty Philpot of Mena; two cousins, Sidney Lee Sherrill III, and wife Khara, and George Sherrill and wife Lindsay; six second cousins, Meagan Sherrill, Matthew Sherrill, Leah Grace Sherrill, Dalton Sherrill, Bridget Sherrill, and Brock Sherrill; eight godchildren, ZuZu Cangelosi, CoCo Cangelosi, Jacob Owen Cangelosi, Hope Cangelosi, Jill Holland Cangelosi, Judah Cangelosi, Kamden Moffat, and Aleksei Gilbert; two godparents, Mark Zoeller and Sue Ellen Wilkerson; the entire Philpot family; and many friends. Oakleigh's heavenly homecoming celebration will be held at 6:00pm the night of Friday, June 9, 2017, at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home in Fayetteville. Oakleigh would love for everyone to dress in colorful and/or sparkly clothing to reflect this glorious gathering. The family asks that there be no carnations due to allergies. Memorials may be made to the Molly Harlin Memorial Scholarship and mailed to P.O. Box 33, Gamaliel, Kentucky 42140, or Edmonton State Bank at 301 East Main Street, Gamaliel, Kentucky 42140. Please make checks payable to Molly Harlin Scholarship Fund. To sign the online guest book please visit www.nelsonberna.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home and Crematory of Fayetteville.

Published June 7, 2017

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