Dean Francis Roberts, Jr.

Dean Francis Roberts Jr., age 49, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. He was born in Norwood, Massachusetts on October 23, 1976 and raised in Walpole by his paternal grandparents, James and Lillis Conway.

Dean was a happy child, who enjoyed boyscouts and spending time with his sister Julie and Shauna, as well as their neighborhood friends. He was especially close with his Irish Twin Julie, who was exactly 11 months older than him, often teasing her when their ages overlapped. He was active with youth sports, playing baseball through middleschool. In 1990, his family moved to South Walpole, a short walking distance to Gillette Stadium, taking advantage of the distance during the Patriot’s home games.

Dean attended Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School where he focused on HVAC, before transferring to Walpole High during his senior year, graduating with the class of 1995. After graduating, held a variety of hospitality jobs before taking a position as a landscaper. He loved his job, delighting in his ability to beautify someone’s yard.

Dean’s life changed forever in December of 1998, when his beautiful daughter Allison was born. Allison was the light of Dean’s life. Every moment that he had with her was a dream come true. He was thrilled to have a little mini-me to watch wrestling with and swim in the family pool.

In his free time, Dean enjoyed spending time with family. He loved family gatherings, especially when he was asked to help with the cooking. He had a soft spot for dogs, taking care of his late grandfather’s dog Buddy. Dean also enjoyed being in the great outdoors, hiking, camping, and fishing. At home, he was a devoted Patriots and Red Sox fan, catching every game he could. Dean also liked to listen to music, with an eclectic taste ranging from rap to heavy metal. He also enjoyed spending time with his friends; a devoted friend, you could count on Dean for anything. He was kind, loving, and fun, and will be greatly missed.

Loving father of Allison Roberts of Douglas.

Beloved brother of Julie Sampson and her husband Justin of Walpole, Shauna Roberts of Foxborough, Kevin Kriston and his wife Meghan of New York, and Michelle Meadows and her husband Larry of Ohio.

Cherished grandson of the late James and Lillis Conway.

Devoted nephew of Ellen MacDonald of Walpole, and the late Jimmy Conway.

Uncle of Zachary Roberts, Joey Cavaleri, and Shannon Manning.

Also survived by extended relatives and friends.

At the request of Dean’s family, all immediate services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Dean's name may be made to the Jimmy Fund by mailing a check to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168 or by visiting https://www.jimmyfund.org.

Arrangements by James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, Walpole.