Robson was the valedictorian of her high school class and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma at Norman with a degree in business. She was the daughter of L.S. Robson, a prosperous banker and rancher. She and Sam were married February 14, 1943.

Sam Walton left his ownership in Wal-Mart to his wife and their children: S. Robson Walton (Rob), John T. Walton (d.2005), Jim Walton, and Alice Walton. Rob Walton chairs the board of directors of Wal-Mart, on which John served until his death. The others are not directly involved in the company except through their voting power as shareholders. The Walton family holds 4 spots in the top 15 richest people in the United States.