Charles Edward Roberts

Dr. Charles Edward Roberts, PhD, passed away at his home in Sacramento, CA on November 15th, 2025. 

Born near Bennington, OK on August 25th, 1941, Charles learned Choctaw as his first language under the care of his mother Pearl Roberts and grandmother Lesa Phillip Roberts, a Mississippi Choctaw. Charles earned his doctorate from the University of Oregon in 1975 and spent his career developing courses in and teaching Native American history at CSU Sacramento. His legacy and contributions to Native American Studies and Ethnic studies were honored by Sacramento State upon his retirement in 2009. Charles was preceded in death by his mother Pearl, brother Randall Collum, grandmother Lesa, wife Jane, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his two sons Christopher and Matthew, his grandchildren Gavin, Clark, Madelyn, and Leighton, and his loving partner Stella Mancias.