"We had a grand time," she said. "Together we chose the objects, designed the exhibit and even polished the silver, all the while chatting about our favorite silversmiths and silver patterns."
Ms. Roberts also had a deep knowledge of Maryland genealogy.
"She loved and knew it, plus - because she had grown up here - had a great sense of Maryland history, and we all benefited from her research," she said.
Ms. Roberts had just been invited to serve as a member of the museum's committee on acquisitions.
"This was in acknowledgment of her many contributions. It'll be hard to believe that she won't be coming through the door next Monday," Ms. Disviscour said. "Pat's legacy is not only what she contributed but how she inspired others to get involved."
Robert W. Rogers, executive director of the historical society, said, "Pat's commitment came through in all things she touched at the Maryland Historical Society and also in those touched by her personally.
He added: "For this, we are truly indebted."
Fletcher Roberts, her brother, who lives in Hoboken, N.J., and is an editor in the culture department of The New York Times, said his sister appointed herself family historian.
Ms. Roberts assiduously researched her family's genealogy, studied family scrapbooks, census records, and court and historical society documents. She enjoyed planning family reunions to share what she had learned.
"She was tireless about this stuff, and I think that kind of research appealed to the lawyer in her," Mr. Roberts said.
Ms. Roberts philanthropic interests centered on Morgan, which she felt "helped launch her career and she wanted to give something back," her brother said.
Plans for a memorial service for Ms. Roberts, who donated her body to the Maryland Anatomy Board, were incomplete.
Also surviving are her mother, Roberta G. Roberts of Baltimore; a nephew; and five nieces.
