Roger Colbert

Roger U. Colbert, a beloved father, attorney, and ardent sports fan, passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on January 28, 1958, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, to Shelby and the late Ursey Colbert, Roger made Paragould his home, where he touched the lives of many through his legal practice and community involvement. 

Roger received his early education at Campbell High School and went on to earn a degree in Political Science from Arkansas State University in 1981, where he was also a brother of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He further distinguished himself by obtaining his Juris Doctorate from the UALR William H. Bowen School of Law. With a formidable grasp of many facets of law, Roger practiced in areas including Real Estate, Corporate Law, Financial Institution Law, and Estates, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his clients and his profession. Roger also served as President of the Greene-Clay Bar Association, and as a member of the House of Delegates of the Arkansas Bar Association.

Outside his legal practice, Roger dedicated his time to the development of Greene County through a number of non-profit organizations such as the Community Foundation of Greene County and the Paragould Chamber of Commerce, where he served as Chairman of the board in 2008. Of his many accomplishments, he took immense pride in being named the Chamber Member of the Year in 2003 and the Greene County Volunteer Attorney of the Year in 2011.

Roger was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and rarely missed an opportunity to support his Arkansas State Red Wolves, expressing his passion for both basketball and football with infectious enthusiasm. His love for sports extended to cheering for the Missouri Tigers, further showcasing his vibrant spirit and camaraderie with fellow fans.

He is survived by his cherished daughters, Graycen (Alex) Bigger and Bailey (Walter) Mahone; his devoted mother, Shelby Colbert; loving siblings, Scott Colbert, Gina (Doug) Jordan, and Lisa (Rick) Stanislaus; mother of his daughters, Kelly Colbert; and his nephews. Roger’s legacy of service will be carried on in the hearts of those he inspired throughout his life.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Roger’s life on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 10:00 am at Heath Funeral Home with Rev. Dane Womack officiating. A private burial will follow the celebration. Pallbearers will be Alex Bigger, Walter Mahone, Doug Jordan, Dylan Jordan, Jake Jordan and Rick Stanislaus.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tim Brown, Donis Hamilton, Jason Gazaway, H.T. Moore, Brad Broadaway, and Brian Ratcliff. 

In remembering Roger U. Colbert, let us honor his deep commitment to family, his passion for the law, and his spirited love for sports, celebrating a life well-lived and a spirit that will continue to resonate in the lives he touched. 

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Arkansas Community Foundation of Greene County or the Red Wolves Foundation.