With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frank “Sonny” Roybal Jr., who left this world on June 8, 2025, while surrounded by the love and care of his family. Born May 14, 1942, in Clifton, Arizona to Frank J. and Maria Valencia Roybal Sr. Frank’s life was one of purpose, pride, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family, community, and country.
Frank grew up in the tight-knit town of Columbia, Utah, where everyone knew your name and his stories were legendary. From an early age, he had a magnetic personality, sharp wit, and a gift for storytelling that only grew more captivating with time. To know Frank was to laugh, to listen, and to be reminded that life is best lived with passion and heart.
A proud graduate of the University of Utah, where he studied geology, Frank later answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Due to his remarkable intellect and exceptional abilities, Frank was selected to be part of the Army’s first graduating class of Green Berets, an elite force tasked with specialized missions in Central America. Though he never served in Vietnam, Frank often said he faced more combat in the jungles of Panama than many did overseas. His time in the service remained a great source of pride throughout his life.
After returning home, Frank found his greatest joy, his beloved wife, Mary Louise “Weezie” Roybal. They were married on December 7, 1968, in Elko, Nevada and built a life together in Columbia, Utah, raising four wonderful children who inherited his strength, humor, and deep sense of loyalty.
Frank worked for many years in the coal mines, where he became a respected voice in the labor movement. A fierce advocate for miners’ rights, he fought tirelessly to ensure safe working conditions and access to critical benefits such as black lung compensation. He led union protests, filed grievances on behalf of fellow miners, and stood as a pillar of courage and conviction, never backing down when it came to doing what was right.
But perhaps Frank’s most enduring legacy lies in the lives he shaped on the baseball diamond. As a beloved coach to hundreds of young players, including his own sons and grandsons, Frank poured his heart into the game. To him, baseball wasn’t just a sport, it was a way of life. Even years later, former players would still greet him simply as “Coach.” His impact, both on and off the field, will never be forgotten.
Frank was endlessly proud of his family. He was the life of every party, the one with the quick joke, a twinkle in his eye, and a heart full of stories. His presence lit up every room, and his laughter made life more joyful for everyone lucky enough to know him.
Frank is survived by his children, Frankie Roybal (Estevan), William “Bill” Roybal, Jennifer Todd (Rick), and Brian Roybal (Tonya); grandchildren, Nicholas Lucero, Anthony Montoya, Marcus (Hailey) Montoya, Jadyn Montoya, Madysen Montoya, Kameron Montoya, and Vanessa Joe; siblings, Vickie Aguayo (JR), Alberta Roybal, and Albert Roybal (Judy); and numerous sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He is reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Weezie; his parents, Frank Sr. and Maria; and many cherished family members.
Frank J. Roybal Jr. was a giant of a man, brilliant, bold, and beloved. He lived without regrets, loved without limits, and laughed every chance he got. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and in the stories he leaves behind. We know that he will be sitting in the bleachers watching over us.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Aspire Hospice and their staff, especially to Brandy, Kris, Mackayla, and Ed. They went above and beyond.
Memorial Mass, Saturday, June 14, 2025, 12:30 p.m. Good Shepherd Catholic Church in East Carbon, Utah. Rosary service will take place Friday, June 13, 2025, 6:00 p.m., at the church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services on Friday and Saturday. Interment, Valley View Cemetery, Sunnyside, Utah.
Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Frank online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.