WINONA — Roy Albert Roberts was born on Jan. 13, 1939, in Baldwyn to Roy Boyd and Ruth Murdock Roberts. He was a native of Union County, near the Alpine Community where Zion Hill Baptist Church is located. He became a Christian at Zion Hill as a 9-year-old boy. He was the valedictorian of his class at Cedar Hill High School, attended Northeast Mississippi Community College for two years and was an honor graduate of Mississippi State University.
Roy was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Janie Sue Pannell; and a stillborn brother.
He is survived by his wife, Jerri Ray Roberts of Winona; two daughters, Marlene R. Vanderlip (Kevin) of Winona and Marilyn R. Smith (Troy) of Greenwood; a son, Mickey R. Roberts (Debbie) of Winona; a stepdaughter, Stephanie L. Jones (Rob) of Grenada; a stepson, Charles Land (Meridith) of Birmingham, Alabama; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a niece and a nephew.
Roy retired from the USDA-FMHA with over 33 years of service. He spent the next 30 years pursuing his true interest and passions, which included the church, family events, hunting, fishing, gardening and MSU events (particularly women’s basketball). He enjoyed gospel music and traveled to neighboring states many times to hear his favorite performers in concert. He was an excellent cook and appreciated and enjoyed a good steak — his favorite being from Nails in Stewart.
Roy was a proud American and had great appreciation for the men and women who have served and are serving in the various military branches. He was a member of Scotland Baptist Church, where he particularly enjoyed the 8 a.m. service every fifth Sunday and the breakfast that followed. He was a former deacon, Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School volunteer and Rotary Club member. He was very active in 4-H in his early years.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Zion Hill Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery. Bro. John Jacks will officiate at the service.
Pallbearers will be Erik Vanderlip, Jay Smith, Reed Roberts, Richard Pannell, Henry Vanderlip and Gunner Wilkes.
Memorials may be made to Scotland Baptist Church, Zion Hill Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, Winona Christian School or the charity of your choice.
Oliver Funeral Home of Winona is in charge of arrangements. An online guestbook may be signed at www.ofhwinona.com.
