Roman Villegas

Roman Villegas, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and veteran, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, June 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 81 years old.

Born on February 7, 1944, in Topeka, Kansas, he was the son of Guadalupe and Maria De La Cruz (Reynosa) Villegas. From a young age, Roman lived with a generous heart and an unshakable sense of duty, a life defined by service, sacrifice, and unconditional love.

Roman enlisted in the United States Army and honorably served his country during both the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. He retired with the rank of Staff Sergeant, proud to stand beside his fellow soldiers. His military service was only the beginning of a lifelong commitment to caring for others.

During his time in the service, Roman met the love of his life, Geraldine “Gerri” Sandeffer. They were married on December 30, 1972, in Topeka and shared nearly 37 beautiful years together before Gerri’s passing in 2009. Roman continued to honor their bond each day through his unwavering devotion to their family.

A hardworking and humble man, Roman often held multiple jobs to ensure his family was cared for. After his military career, he worked for the United States Postal Service in the building maintenance department and later for the USD 501 School District. He never sought recognition—he simply did what needed to be done, because that’s who he was.

Roman was always the first to show up and the last to leave, whether cheering on his grandchildren at games, attending family gatherings, or signing up for a local 5K. He stayed active with daily walks and runs and was always ready to embrace wherever life or love took him. A loyal Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, and Kansas Jayhawks fan, he rarely missed a chance to celebrate his favorite teams.

Even in his later years, Roman remained the rock of his family. He continued to provide in countless ways, buying groceries for family dinners, helping with home projects, or lovingly spoiling his grandchildren with toys, laughter, and affection. His presence filled every room with warmth, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his three daughters, Lori Smith (Nathan), Felisa Sharp (Brian), and Jaime Lake; and six cherished grandchildren, Dalton and Alexis Smith, Kaylyn and Ellie Sharp, and Hannah and Carli Lake. He is also survived by his brother, Francisco Villegas; sister, Marta Romero (Robert); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members and friends whose lives were forever touched by his steady love and selfless heart.

Roman was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gerri; five brothers, Arnulfo Sr., Augustine, Leopoldo, Domingo, and Jesus Villegas; and one sister, Magdalene Villegas.

He will lie in state from 4-8:00 P.M., on Thursday, June 12, with a rosary being prayed at 6:00 P.M., at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., on Friday, June 13, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Burial with full military honors will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka.

Memorial contributions can be made in Roman's memory to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.