John Roberts

John Goode Roberts, Jr., age 98, passed away Sunday May 28, 2017, at home in Lynchburg, Virginia. He was born June 9, 1918 in Windsor, Virginia to the late John. G. Roberts, Sr. and the late Marnie Chambers Wills Roberts. He was predeceased by his wife, Kathleen Rountree Roberts, and granddaughter, Melissa Lanier. After graduating in 1939 with a B.S. degree from Virginia Tech, Mr. Roberts taught Civics, Science, and Industrial Arts at Kempsville, High School, Virginia Beach, Virginia. On August 4, 1941, he entered the U.S. Army serving 4 years in both the European and Pacific Theaters of World War II. He continued his service as a Supervisor of Rehabilitation for the Veterans Administration. Mr. Roberts extended his military career in the Army Reserve and National Guard, thus totaling 22 years of service. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1962. In 1949, Mr. Roberts was hired by Smith-Douglass Fertilizer Company in Norfolk, Virginia, and transferred to Danville as a sales supervisor. He retired in 1980 as the plant manager-fertilizer division of Borden Chemical Company. A community servant, Mr. Roberts served as president of the Sertoma Club, Exalted Ruler of the Elks Club, Danville Planning Commission, Boy Scouts of America, American Legion Post 375, and Rotary. He was a charter member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he devoted his time as Lay Leader, Sunday School Teacher, and numerous board positions. Mr. Roberts is survived by his wife, Barbara Rodden Roberts; one son, John G. Roberts, III (Martie); one daughter, Peggy Roberts Tompkins (Jim); step-children, Susan Rodden Dittler (Martin), David Rodden (Debbie), and Nancy Rodden Hunt(Andy); 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. Funeral Services will be conducted at 11 AM Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Danville by Reverend Charles Wickham. Burial will follow at Highland Burial Park with military honors provided by the Virginia Army National Guard. A reception and visitation will follow after the burial at Trinity United Methodist Church. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 409 Arnett Boulevard, Danville, Virginia 24540. Townes Funeral Home, 215 West Main Street, is serving the Roberts family. Online condolences can be made at www.townesfuneralhome.com