Country music legend Randy Travis has shared his condolences for the passing of his dear friend and former stagehand, Thomas Roberts.

The news of Thomas’s tragic death was confirmed by Travis in a heartfelt Facebook post on July 10th. With a heavy heart, Travis expressed, “With the passing of Thom Roberts, the stage has dimmed.”

Thomas Roberts, a highly skilled stage lighting technician, had been an invaluable part of the Randy Travis band and crew for many years. Travis fondly describes him as having a subtle yet captivating presence that could ignite the soul. He was not only exceptional at lighting up the stage but also possessed a remarkable willingness to help others. Travis adds, “Always ready to help, with a ‘can do’ and a ‘glad to do it’ attitude.”

Kind-hearted and gentle, Thomas was a true giant of a man. Behind his constant smile, he carried with him a song in his heart. Travis shares, “A nicer, gentler attitude would take a lifetime to find.” Thomas was not just a colleague but a dear friend to Travis, who loved him dearly.

A former stagehand for country star Randy Travis was allegedly shot dead by his wife because she believed he was having an affair, according to authorities. https://t.co/8AixvmHAro

— NBC News (@NBCNews) July 11, 2023

Travis reflects on the upcoming “More Life” tour and acknowledges that it won’t be the same without Thom’s bright presence. The entire band and crew join Travis in mourning the loss of their friend. Travis states, “The light that he truly created, in our hearts, will never be extinguished or forgotten.” He believes that whenever they gaze at the night sky, they will see flashes of Thom’s handiwork, assuring them that he is home and at peace.

The circumstances surrounding Thomas Roberts’ untimely passing are deeply tragic. According to reports, he was shot and died at the age of 68. His wife, Christine Ann Roberts, 72, allegedly shot him on their front porch in the evening. Christine claimed that she took such drastic measures because she believed Thomas had cheated on her. However, the veracity of these statements is yet to be confirmed.

A longtime stagehand for country star Randy Travis was gunned down by his wife, “who said that she shot her husband because he had cheated on her."https://t.co/zG2zmRCeqX

— The Daily Beast (@thedailybeast) July 11, 2023

Neighbours who heard the gunshots immediately dialed 911 upon discovering Thomas on the floor. Tragically, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Today, it is essential to remember the immense contributions Thomas made to the music industry throughout his two-decade tenure as a stagehand for Randy Travis, until Travis’s stroke in 2013.

Thomas Roberts’ loss is deeply felt by Randy Travis, his band, and crew. While the road ahead may be bittersweet without Thom’s presence, his memory will forever be cherished.