JAMES ROBERTS

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James Roberts, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, who left us suddenly on July 10, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on January 14, 1946, in the warm embrace of Lowndes County, Alabama, James was the cherished son of the late John Roberts and Celia Peterson Roberts. James's life was a tapestry of strength, love, and unwavering dedication. He was predeceased by his beloved parents, his first wife, Rella-Mae Siler Roberts, whom he married on June 6, 1971, until her passing in 1998, his second wife, Edna Bivens Roberts, his brothers Charlie Wiley, Bob Roberts, Monroe Roberts, his sisters Johnnie Mae Grimes, Demprey Haley, Alice Mae Rawlinson, and his grandson, Demario O'Neal. He is survived by his loving children: Mary O'Neal Dixon of Montgomery, Alabama; Latonya Roberts of Pensacola, Florida; Natasha Roberts Duggins of Tampa, Florida; and Johnathan Roberts of Fort Walton Beach, Florida. He leaves a legacy of love also with his stepdaughters: Sharun (Smitty) Bivins Smith of Fort Walton Beach, Florida; Sheila (Scott) Bivins Stevens of Kentucky; and Thomasema Bivins of Orlando, Florida. James was a proud grandfather to numerous grandchildren and an uncle to many cherished nieces and nephews. His siblings, brother Albert Roberts, sisters Rosia Roberts Mason of White Hall, Alabama; Mary (Isaiah) Davis of Mattapan, Massachusetts; Liz Roberts of Hayneville, Alabama; and Jacqueline Roberts-Hall of White Hall, Alabama, also survive him. James dedicated over 30 years of his life to Goodyear Automotive, where he was known for his work ethic and commitment to excellence. As a child, he was nurtured in faith as a member of Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, and as an adult, he was a steadfast member of Beulah First Baptist Church. He was a man of simple pleasures, finding joy in working on vehicles and the serenity of fishing. Patient beyond measure, James could spend hours by a pond, content with the promise of a single bite, a trait his son admired yet never quite shared in enthusiasm. James was a man of strength and sincerity, often described as stern and strong-willed, with a straightforward demeanor that some might have mistaken for harshness. Yet, beneath this exterior was a heart of gold, ever ready to give selflessly and help anyone in need, expecting nothing in return. As a grandfather, James's kindness and love knew no bounds. His family and friends remember him as one of the kindest and most loving human beings, a testament to a life well-lived. A service to honor and celebrate James's life will be held on July 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Beulah First Baptist Church, located at 109 Mc Griff St NE, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32549. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice in his memory. James Roberts's life was a beacon of love and dedication, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.