Roberta Osage

Roberta Osage, a respected elder and beloved member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, began her journey to the Spirit World on June 20, 2025, at the age of 69 in Watonga, Oklahoma. Born in Clinton, Oklahoma, on March 5, 1956, Roberta lived a life rooted in love, strength, and service—to her family, her community, her Tribe, and her country. She was a ceremonial woman and Native American Church member.

A proud graduate of Watonga High School, Class of 1974, Roberta pursued higher education with unwavering determination. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1981, completing her degree in just three years. Her commitment to education and personal growth was a source of pride for her family and a testament to her steadfast spirit.

Roberta honorably served in the United States Army as part of the Military Police, and was stationed in Korea for a year. She was stationed at Ft. Gordon, Georgia; Ft. McClellan, Alabama; Ft. Lewis, Washington; and Ft. Huachuca, Arizona. Her service to this country was a defining chapter in her life and one she carried with humility and pride.

Roberta’s professional life included work in both Norman and Oklahoma City. She was deeply engaged in advocacy and community development through her work with Oklahomans for Indian Opportunity, Inc., and the Indian Child Welfare (ICW). She was also a gifted artist, well-known for her intricate beadwork—a craft passed down through generations and lovingly practiced with cultural reverence.

She was a dedicated mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt whose home was always open and filled with warmth. Known for her delicious fry bread and home-cooked meals, Roberta’s kitchen was a gathering place where love was shared in every bite. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she took great joy in making sure their every need was met.

Whether encouraging others with her wisdom, cheering on a lucky slot machine, or beading with quiet patience, Roberta lived each day with joy, humor, and grace. Her laughter, generosity, and enduring presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters: Dorothy Inoa (Raymond) of Mustang, OK; Julie Osage of Watonga, OK; and Julia Osage-Merill (Anthony) of Colorado. She also leaves behind her brothers: Larry Romanose (Pauline), Eugene Blackbear Jr., Paul “Rex” Blackbear (Phyllis), Ralph Blackbear (Senoria), and Fred Blackbear; sisters: Wilma Blackbear Whitebird (Malcom Jr.) and Ida Parton (Kenneth); and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family, all of whom were touched by her love.

She now rejoins loved ones who walked before her: her parents, Eugene Blackbear Sr and Stella (Bessie Romanose) Blackbear, a daughter Marilyn Frasier, her sisters Imogene Blackbear and Frances Doctor, and her brother Anthony Romanose.

A wake to honor Roberta will be held on Monday, June 23, at the ERC in Watonga, OK. Traditional services to honor her life will be held on Tuesday, June 24, at the ERC in Watonga, OK, with burial to follow at the Blackbear Cemetery in Watonga, Oklahoma. Services are under the direction of Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home in Clinton, Oklahoma.

Roberta Osage’s legacy lives on through her family, her community, and the many lives she touched. May her journey be peaceful and her memory a blessing.