Scott Allen Roberts, longtime CPA and resident of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026, surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly. He was 74.

Scott was born on December 9, 1951, in Davenport, Iowa, to George and Viola Roberts. The youngest of three children, he was affectionately known in the family as “Little Scotty.” When he was 12, his family moved to Webster Groves, Missouri, where he later graduated from Webster Groves High School in 1969.

Scott went on to attend the University of Missouri, where he first earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1975 and received a lifetime teaching certificate. After completing his student teaching, he decided he was better suited to numbers than to managing high school students—a conclusion that would shape the rest of his professional life. He returned to the University of Missouri and, in 1978, earned a second bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting.

Scott became a Certified Public Accountant and moved to Springfield in 1980. He began his career with a local CPA firm, but in 1984—just two weeks after the birth of his son, David—he took a leap of faith and opened his own accounting practice. It was a decision that reflected both his independence and his strong work ethic. For 45 years, Scott served individuals and businesses throughout the Springfield community with professionalism, integrity, and an individualized touch that became his trademark. He retired in 2021. Post retirement, Scott occupied his time by being a shuttle driver for University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, where he built several new friendships.

Scott was known not only for his sharp mind and sound advice, but also for the genuine care he showed his clients. He believed in doing business the old-fashioned way, often personally delivering tax returns and taking time to build relationships that frequently grew into lasting friendships. He enjoyed being in solo practice, and it allowed him the freedom to devote time to the people and interests he loved most.

Outside of work, Scott lived a life full of humor, curiosity, and passion. He was an avid golfer, collector of antiques and sports memorabilia, admirer of Van Gogh, enthusiast of classic British sports cars, and a loyal fan of Mizzou football and Cardinals baseball. He especially enjoyed long lunches with friends and clients, enjoyable conversation, and the kind of laughter that lingered well after the meal was over. Scott had a famously wicked sense of humor and delighted in planning elaborate jokes and pranks—something his wife and closest friends knew all too well.

Beneath that wit was a deeply thoughtful and generous man who wrote poetry and studied history. Scott believed strongly in social justice and quietly gave to causes he cared about, often without seeking recognition. He valued loyalty, fairness, and standing up for what mattered.

In 1997, Scott met the love of his life, Dee Telting. They were married on August 21, 1999, and together built a rich and meaningful life centered on love, family, deep friendships, and shared adventures. Scott and Dee devoted themselves to their careers and to raising Scott’s beloved son, David. Scott was a proud and devoted father who made many sacrifices to support David’s education and future. One of his proudest moments was seeing David graduate from the University of Virginia School of Law. He was prouder still when David married Courtney Brode Roberts and later they became the parents of two beautiful children, Nathanael and Caroline.

Scott is survived by his devoted wife, Dee Telting of Springfield, Missouri; his son, David Roberts, Esq., and wife, Courtney Brode Roberts, of Alexandria, Virginia; and his cherished grandchildren, Nathanael Laurence Roberts and Caroline Elizabeth Roberts, whom he was blessed to visit this past December.

He is also survived by his brother, Dave Roberts Sr. (Paula) of East Moline, Illinois; his sister-in-law, Jamia Brett of Oklahoma City; former brother-in-law, Dr. Dick Halford (Roberta) of St. Louis and Boston; nieces Erin Medina (Brian) and Bethany Garvie (Colin); nephew Dr. Johnny Halford (Sonny); nephew-in-law Larry Brett (Ann); niece-in-law Andrea Engledow (DJ); many cherished great-nieces and great-nephews; treasured close friends; former clients; and, as he would surely want remembered, his trusted car mechanics.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Viola Roberts; his sister, Beth Halford; and his brother-in-law, Laurence L. Brett, Sr.

Scott was a man of integrity, devoted to his wife, family, friendships, laughter, and living life fully. He will be remembered for his loyalty, thoughtful advice, quick wit, generous spirit, and the sincere care he gave to those around him. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

A celebration of Scott’s life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, John Q Room, Springfield, Missouri. Arrangements and cremation directed by Gorman Sharpf Funeral Home and Brentwood Christian Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri.