ELKINS, West Virginia: Dr. Samuel Kump “Sam” Roberts, a longtime physician whose medical career touched generations of families in West Virginia, died on December 20, 2019, at the age of 70, according to his funeral home obituary.
Roberts spent more than four decades serving patients in Elkins and surrounding communities. His work in family and internal medicine included providing maternity care and helping deliver more than 6,000 babies, making him a familiar figure to many families across the region.
His death was described in the published obituary as unexpected, following a period of declining health. The notice did not establish suicide as the cause of death, and no reliable source reviewed for this report confirmed that claim.
A Career Dedicated to Patient Care
Born on May 26, 1949, in Elkins, Roberts followed a path into medicine that continued a family tradition. His father, Donald Russell Roberts, was also a physician in the community.
After graduating from Elkins High School in 1967, Roberts earned an undergraduate degree from Washington & Jefferson College in 1971. He graduated from West Virginia University’s School of Medicine in 1975 and completed his residency in 1978.
He subsequently became board-certified in family medicine and maintained a private practice in Elkins. His professional responsibilities also included teaching medicine at West Virginia University and serving as a medical director for healthcare and rehabilitation facilities.
Beyond his clinical work, Roberts participated in medical missionary activities in Haiti, helping establish clinics and operate mobile medical services. Those efforts extended his commitment to patient care beyond West Virginia.
Family, Community and Personal Interests
Roberts was married to Maria Sileny Vargas, who survived him, according to the funeral home announcement. He also left behind children, grandchildren and extended family members.
Away from medicine, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing and spending time at his cabin. He was involved in local organizations, including the Izaak Walton League and a society dedicated to preserving ramps, a wild plant native to the Appalachian region.
A memorial service was held at First Baptist Church in Elkins on January 4, 2020.
What Is Known About His Death?
Online searches connecting Dr. Sam Roberts with suicide require careful interpretation. The published obituary confirms his death and records his medical and personal history, but it does not establish suicide as the cause.
Accurate reporting requires reliable documentation before attributing a cause of death to an individual. Readers seeking further information should consult the family’s official announcement or the funeral home responsible for his obituary.
Dr. Roberts’ documented legacy includes decades of medical service, maternity care and community involvement in West Virginia.