Roberta T. Ater's Obituary
Roberta Thomasson Ater, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025, after a long illness. She was 75 years old.
Born in Hickory, North Carolina, Roberta grew up in Washington, D.C. and Bethesda, MD. She was a proud graduate of Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, Class of 1968. After graduation, Roberta began her professional career at GEICO, where she worked diligently for many years, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues.
In 2007, Roberta retired to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where she embraced the coastal lifestyle. Known for her generosity, sharp wit, and kind heart, she brought comfort to those around her.
Roberta was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert Kennedy Ater; her parents, Louis S. Thomasson, Jr. and Dorothea Fulenwider Thomasson; and her sister, Billie Thomasson Sykes-Pechacek.
She is survived by her daughter, Shelly Ater Gordy, son in-law Brendan Gordy and granddaughter Lizzy of Rehoboth Beach; her son, James Louis Ater of Millsboro; and her brother, George Thomasson of Lewes. Her legacy of love and resilience will live on through her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to Meals on Wheels, Lewes, DE at https://www.mealsonwheels-lr.org/donate/.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
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