It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roberta “Robyn” Torbett, who went to be with the Lord on May 23, 2025, at the age of 88, in Lufkin, Texas.
Robyn was a beloved longtime resident of Hemphill, Texas, where she found great joy and peace spending time on the waters of Toledo Bend and worshiping faithfully each Sunday at Fairdale Baptist Church. Her days were filled with the simple joys of life, faith, family, and the beauty of nature.
Born on September 25, 1936, in Los Angeles, California, Robyn was the cherished daughter of John Reagan Skeen and Thelma Hawkins. She was raised in a loving home alongside her sibling, and carried the values of love, kindness, and resilience with her throughout her life. She graduated from Leuzinger High School and later pursued higher education, continuing her path of learning and growth.
Robyn spent the majority of her professional life at Farmers Insurance, where she became more than just a coworker—she was a mentor, a friend, and a trusted guide to many. Her wisdom, compassion, and integrity left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to work alongside her.
But Robyn’s greatest devotion was always to her family and her faith. She poured her heart into her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ralph Eugene Torbett, and her beloved son, Michael Skeen. Though her absence is deeply felt, her legacy lives on in those she loved so dearly.
She is survived by her daughters, Tami Torbett Wickboldt (and husband Dennis), Susan Jill Torbett, and her bonus daughter, Nettie Williams. Among her most cherished memories were the summers she spent with her grandsons, Graham Eugene Karwath (and wife Chelsea) and Conor Gibson Karwath (and wife Stephanie)—times filled with laughter, love, and moments that became treasured family stories.
Robyn lived a life grounded in grace, guided by faith, and overflowing with love. She touched many lives with her kindness and strength, and while we grieve her passing, we are also grateful for the many years we were blessed to have her with us.
In accordance with Robyn’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, her life will be honored with a celebration filled with love, memories, and joy—just as she would have wanted.
Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.