Helen Joycelyn Moorhead Roebuck, matriarch of the St. Croix Roebuck family, poultry farmer, church organist, mother of six, grandmother of 19, great grandmother of 33 and great-great grandmother of two, passed away this week, leaving a hole in the hearts of many.
"Mrs. Roebuck was known throughout St. Croix as the matriarch of the prominent Roebuck family and has been a friend for a long time," said Gov. John deJongh Jr., in a statement upon news of her passing. "Cecile and I join the community in mourning her passing, and know that the memories of this vivacious and accomplished woman will keep her alive in our hearts and minds," deJongh said.
"The Roebuck clan has been instrumental in the growth and development of the Virgin Islands for decades. Helen Roebuck was a partner in all things with her late husband, Rip, from business to agriculture to horse racing to church activities. Their legacy will always be the continued presence of energetic and engaged Roebucks in the activities of the Virgin Islands," deJongh said.
"Senate President Shawn-Michael Malone issued a statement on behalf of the entire 30th Legislature.
"I join all Virgin Islanders in paying tribute to this gracious lady whose family has played a significant role in the development of the economic, public service, agricultural, horse racing and cultural events of St. Croix and the Territory for decades," Malone said.
Roebuck was born in Christiansted in 1922. She was very active for many years as organist and choir member for the Lord God of Sabaoth Lutheran Church in Christiansted. Her marriage to the late Richard R.Roebuck, Sr. lasted for 58 years. Roebuck and her husband were co-owners of Solitude Farms, a major poultry farm on St. Croix. Her son, Richard Roebuck, Jr., was St. Croix Administrator during the administration of Governor Alexander A. Farrelly.
"As we pause to remember the passing of one of St. Croix’s most respected matriarchs, we extend sympathies to her family, loved ones and friends. It is my hope that the love and goodwill of this community at this sad time will comfort and sustain all bereaved by her passing. She lived and long and useful life and left a better St. Croix and Virgin Islands as her legacy. May she rest in peace," Malone said.
