Chilhowie, Va.

Jerry Lynn Roberts - a.k.a. J.R. - of Chilhowie, Virginia died on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at Chilhowie Health Care Center in Chilhowie, Virginia. He was born in Saltville, Virginia on Saturday, February 2, 1952 to Eugene "Beanie" and Dixie Lee Brooks

Roberts. He grew up on Smokey Row, attended Saltville City Schools, and graduated from R. B. Worthy High School in 1970. There he acted in plays, ran track, played football for the undefeated 1966 Shakers, played bass horn in the Shaker band making all-state band and was president of the student body. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Virginia Tech in Education in 1974 and was an ardent Hokie fan. He grew up at and was a member of Plasterco United Methodist Church.

Jerry taught 5th Grade for a year, and worked at various vocations from radio DJ, funeral director, car salesman, sales manager, serving as maitre'd at a resort in Crossville, Tennessee, built and operated a putt-putt course in Saltville, to delivering car parts. Jerry was an intelligent, talented, and free spirit who could successfully do anything he endeavored. He experienced joy in all he did and delighted in bringing thatjoy to others. He was a faithful son, brother, father, and friend.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Beanie and Dixie Roberts; and his brother, David G. Roberts.

He is survived by his daughter, Laura Lynn Nordyke Freck (Andrew); grandson, Julian Freck; and granddaughter, Emmaline Freck, all of Los Angeles, California; sister, Sandy Roberts Wright (Jeff) of Sevierville, Tennessee; brother, Jeff Roberts (Reesa) of Roxboro, North Carolina; and six nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at the D. R. Henderson Funeral Chapel in Saltville, Virginia with Pastor Jeff Roberts and Pastor Jeff Wright officiating. The family will receive friends from 2 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D. R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jerry Lynn "J.R." Roberts.