Billy Joe Roberts, 79, passed away May 2, 2019, at Houston House, Houston, Mo. He was born May 14, 1939, in Springfield, Mo., to Joshua and Lillie Pearl (Carter) Roberts.
Bill attended Houston High School, but before graduating he entered the United States Army, later obtaining his GED. He served in the Army from May 16, 1956 until Nov. 18, 1958. He then began his career working at Fort Leonard Wood in the quarter master laundry, for the post Engineers, and then his favorite job, driving a truck for the troop lift. He retired from the 87th Engineer Battalion receiving his civilian certificate of appreciation commander award for civil service after serving 33 years and five months. After retirement he worked several years at the Houston Herald.
Bill married Carol Sue Guy in December 1959. They enjoyed 59 years of marriage. He was a long-time member of Ozark Baptist Church. He was a member of the Masons Texas Lodge #177 of Houston, Mo.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Delfred “Butch” Roberts; two brothers, Haskell Roberts and Delfred “Del” Roberts; three sisters, Edna Laxton, Karen Kinserlow, and Maxine Roberts; two infant sisters; and infant twins.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Roberts of the home in Houston, Mo.; a daughter, Sharon Roberts of Eureka Springs, Ark.; a brother, Don Roberts and wife, Donna; a sister, Shirley Houghton; a grandson, David Roberts; and a granddaughter, Stephanie Roberts.
Bill loved gardening, working outside, swimming, going to Alley Springs to listen to folk and bluegrass music and loved the children at church where he enjoyed spending time with them.
He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Memorial services with a masonic service and full military honors are 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at Evans Funeral Home with Wesley Wallace officiating. Cremation and services are under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Hickory Ridge Cemetery.
PAID
