Frank F. Roybal

Frank F. Roybal (Uncle Sonny, AKA Rambo), passed away unexpectedly on the date of March 3rd, 2023, at his home he shared with nephew and family, Vince and Jennifer Roybal, in Dumas, Texas.  He lived 80 good years.
Uncle Sonny was born on November 1st, 1942, in Santa Fe, NM to Juan and Isabel Roybal.  He was preceded in death by his father, Juan Roybal and his mother, Isabel “Belle” Roybal of Santa Fe, his brother, Jackie Roybal, his sisters, Dolores Acosta-Roybal, Ramona Sisneros, Priscilla “Lela” Roybal and Rosa Garcia – all of Santa Fe, New Mexico.  He was also preceded in death by his nephews, Troy, Michael, and James Garcia and Tommy Sisneros and nieces, Erica Roybal and Geri Sisneros, and great-niece, Brianna (Nanners) Garcia.
Uncle Sonny’s surviving family members include his brother, Anthony Roybal and his sister, Jenny Gonzales, of Santa Fe, niece Andrea Maestas and family, along with numerous other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.      
Sonny (Rambo) was raised in the Catholic community on Alto Street by Isabelle Roybal in “the barrio”, near the Santa Fe Boys Club. He was musically inclined and played the drums for many bands.  He often spoke of one particular band he played for called “The Anaya’s”.  After serving in the U.S.A.R.N.G. during the Vietnam Era, Sonny became a painter by trade, working for various Hotels and Motels in Santa Fe, NM.  After the death of his mother, Isabella, he became a barber school graduate.
Sonny never married but lived 25 years at the Warren Inn in Santa Fe.  During these years, he assisted several people who soon became friends. He often spoke of one of these friends named “Bessy”.  For years, his daily routine was to walk down Cerrillos Road every morning for exercise and also ride the bus, where he didn’t know a stranger and made it a point to say “hi” to everyone he met.  During these years, he met one of his best friends named Mike, who also lived at the Warren Inn.  
Uncle Sonny (Rambo) was a lifetime avid Miami Dolphins fan. He loved completing crossword puzzles in his spare time and he had a knack for making new friends wherever he went. He also always made sure to keep in good communication with his family in Santa Fe, including his best friend, Mike and his siblings, after his decision to move to Texas. 
It was shortly after Thanksgiving in 2021 when Sonny (Rambo) made the decision to move in with his nephew, Vince Roybal, who lives in the Texas panhandle.  During his last 15 months, he continued his morning walks around the small town of Dumas, TX.  He especially looked forward to attending the T-Ball games for his great niece and nephew.  Uncle Sonny was always a huge moral supporter, and his absence will be deeply felt by his entire family. He celebrated his last birthday surrounded by family. Uncle Sonny will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Sonny (Rambo) read his bible daily.  After decades, he found a church home at His Church of Dumas, Texas.