Billy Donald Roberson, 89, of Valdosta, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. Born in Valdosta, he attended Valdosta City Schools and graduated from Valdosta High School in 1954. His father wanted his sons to learn the value of hard work, so Donald started working early—first delivering newspapers on foot. He saved his money to purchase a bicycle thus doubling his route in size. He then worked at Harvey’s Grocery Store at age 14, beginning as a bag boy and eventually becoming a meat cutter, while also helping his father wire houses.

After graduation, Donald served in the National Guard for 8 years and began working for himself as an electrician. While wiring a house in St. Marys, he was invited to work at the papermill (Gillman P.C.). In the late 1950s, Donald and his brother were skiing at Long Pond, where he met Lawanna Peters. One smile and she knew he was the man for her. They were married in September 1962 in Naylor. Soon after, he was recruited to work at Owens Illinois in Clyattville, which allowed the Roberson family to move back home in the mid-1960s. He worked at the papermill in Clyattville for 40 years until his retirement in 2005. Throughout his life, Donald also farmed corn and hay and managed livestock such as cows, horses, and hogs. He was a member of the IBEW for 55 years.

Donald was devoted to his Savior, Jesus Christ. He and Lawanna served in their churches, teaching young people and Sunday School. They have been members of Morningside Baptist Church for over 30 years. Donald was also deeply involved with Gideons International and was very active in the Valdosta South Camp, distributing thousands of scriptures over the years. He was devoted to his family, instilling in them the same strong work ethic and, more importantly, faith in Jesus Christ.

Donald is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lawanna Peters Roberson of Valdosta; son Billy Donald “Donnie” Roberson, Jr., of Valdosta; daughter and son-in-law Christie Roberson Allen and Jody Allen of Valdosta; grandchildren Zachary (and Sarah) Allen of Valdosta, Blake (and Nyn) Allen of Jacksonville; and great-granddaughter Katherine "Kate" Nicole Allen of Valdosta. He is also survived by siblings Fred (and Donna) Roberson and Cecil (and Susan) Roberson, both of Valdosta, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver “O.J.” Jackson Roberson and Adrian Lorraine NeSmith Roberson, and five brothers and two sisters.

A funeral service for Donald will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Morningside Baptist Church, with Rev. Wayne Robertson and Rev. John Akers officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Cemetery. The family will receive visitors on Saturday evening from 4 to 6 p.m. at Carson McLane Funeral Home. Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Gideons International, The Gideons International. Online condolences may be shared on the obituary page at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home is assisting the Roberson family at this time.