Randy Travis, the 64-year-old country music singer and songwriter, is mourning the tragic loss of his long-time collaborator and lighting director Thomas Roberts. Roberts, who worked for Travis for over two decades, was the victim of a fatal shooting on Monday at his home in Nashville, Tennessee.
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department reports that Thomas’s wife, Christine Ann Roberts, 72, has been charged with criminal homicide for the shooting. She is currently being held on a $100,000 bond. On Facebook, Travis paid homage to Thomas, referring to him as “one of the very best stage lighting technicians in the business” and a “gentle giant of a man that wore a constant smile on his face and carried a song in his heart.”
According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, Mrs. Roberts informed officers she had shot her husband because he had “cheated on her” and that a pistol was recovered from the scene. WKRN reports that neighbors of the Roberts spoke kindly of the couple. Another told the station about the warm and friendly welcome Thomas gave them when they moved to the neighborhood.
Amidst his grief, Travis has vowed to continue with their US tour dates for his current More Life tour. He said he is unsure if the music will have the same sweetness. Still, he has vowed to remember the blessing of having Thomas as a part of their team and sharing miles and memories with him. He added Thomas’ light in their hearts would never be extinguished or forgotten.
Roberts had also worked with the late Olivia Newton-John and had paid tribute to her following her death in August 2022. Photos on Thomas’ Facebook also showed him posing with his wife, Christine.
The death of Thomas Roberts, an experienced professional loved by many, is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones.