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Betty Roberts, 74, the wife of the Rev. W. McCarl Roberts, retired, died Nov. 4, 2011, after losing her battle with ovarian cancer. Her body was cremated and a private graveside service was held Dec. 2.

She met McCarl Roberts when she was in high school and he was in college. He and his sister performed a popular magic act. When his sister married, he needed a new assistant. The first candidate for the job was Betty Bremker. The business relationship bloomed into romance and they were married in 1956, while she was in college and he was in seminary.

Betty Roberts graduated from Towson University and became an elementary school teacher. She was a dedicated wife and partner in ministry during the 21 years her husband served churches. These were at Grace UMC in Falls Road, and Bosley in Sparks, 1955-1962; Arnolia UMC 1962-1974; St. Matthews UMC at Bowie until 1976, when he became executive director of the Maryland Bible Society. Betty Roberts became his assistant and continued to work at MBS for five years after he retired in 1995.

Roberts sang in the choirs, taught in the Sunday School, served as president of the United Methodist Women, was a youth counselor and worked at fund raising. She played the piano and violin, loved crafts and was an excellent swimmer.

Shortly before her death, she received this note from a former parishioner: "Betty, the greatest gifts you are giving us, as you go to God’s heaven, are the kind and loving memories of having enriched so many lives - your bright smile and quick wit, your merry heart and happy laughter and your gentle demeanor - all of these and so much more will remain with us who have cherished you and your presence in our lives."

Survivors include her husband of 55 years, a daughter Kimberly, son, Keith Roberts, and five grandchildren.

Condolences may be sent to Rev. McCarl Roberts, 665 Morning Glory Drive, Hanover, PA 17331-7827.