Dunlap benefit concert held to honor Sandra Gray Roberts

DUNLAP, Tenn. (WDEF) — Dunlap’s second Saturday monthly concert turned into a celebration of life for Sandra Gray Roberts. 

Sandra was a well-known singer in the Sequatchie Valley.

At just 45 years old she left behind a legacy for many musicians to admire.

Along with many other events, she participated in the annual Hee-Haw show to raise money for the Sequatchie County Cancer Support Network.

In early August, she tragically passed away due to an unforeseen health condition.

“Somebody that’s actually strived to be as well-known as her, within our small community of Dunlap, to be as musically inclined as she is, to be known to be as thoughtful and generous and kind-hearted, and helpful… It’s just been a major impact,” son Jay Roberts said.

Due to her tragic passing, local organizations raised funds for her family through a benefit concert in Harris Park. 

“She made a great, huge impact on this community. And this is an opportunity for people to say thank you for what maybe she did in a smile, in a song,” husband John Roberts said.

Local bands came out to play in her honor and to celebrate her life. 

Musicians from Appalachian Rythm Section, Sandra’s bandmates Colonel Mustard and the Revolvers, Like Yesterday, Jay Roberts, and David Ryan Wynne were featured in the event.

The concert was organized by Friends of the Park and the Roberts family.

“Be there for the family, be there for the close friends of the family, because we were all hit pretty hard. This entire town was hit hard after the loss of my mom. It’s been tough for the past month. Even if you just reach out and extend a friendly hug or a handshake, or a hey how are you. That’s all that we’ll ever need really,” Jay said.