Ellen Roberts

Ellen Marie Wagner Roberts, 84, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, in her hometown of Conway, Arkansas. A woman who truly lived a life of excitement, Ellen was a world traveler with a vibrant spirit, and a passion for discovery.
In her earlier years, Ellen and her late husband, Frederic Wagner, shared a life of hard work and adventure in Texas. Together, they owned and operated a horse ranch and mastered the complex art of drilling oil wells. As a couple, they loved traveling and especially cherished time spent in England and Ireland. They were also among the first to own a suite at Texas Stadium, where they enjoyed many Dallas Cowboys games with friends and family.
Ellen spent many formative years in Dallas, Texas, where she was an active member of Central Christian Church. There, she generously shared her faith and knowledge by teaching numerous classes. Beyond her church involvement, Ellen was an avid tennis player who had a passion for staying active and maintaining close friendships through sports and social gatherings.
A gifted horticulturist, Ellen’s talent was on full display. She served as president of the gardening club in her Dallas neighborhood and dedicated countless hours to planting flowers, both at the neighborhood entrance and her own home, ensuring her surroundings were always spectacular.
Ellen also enjoyed bringing friends to Carmel, California, a place she loved dearly. Though she had no children of her own, she found great joy in attending events and birthday parties for her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews as well as friends’ grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as “Aunt E.”
Later in life, Ellen found a charming and kindred spirit in George Roberts. The two wed and spent their years together traveling and cherishing time with their family. They eventually moved back to Conway, Arkansas where they found a spiritual home at Woodland Heights Baptist Church. Ellen and George loved welcoming friends to their winter retreat in Palm Springs, California creating cherished memories with loved ones. Following George’s passing, Ellen continued to find joy in the company of her beloved family members.
Ellen was known for her exquisite taste and her gift of hospitality, always creating beautiful and welcoming gatherings.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Roy Rufus Seay and Jewell May Belk Seay; her sister, Carolin Jewell Havens; her first husband, Frederic Wagner; and her husband, George Roberts.
Ellen’s memory will be cherished by the many family members and friends who were touched by her adventurous heart, her leadership, and her love for the natural world.
A memorial service for family and close friends will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 29, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Conway, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ellen’s honor to Woodland Heights Baptist Church in Conway, Arkansas.